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COraRIGHT DEPOSm 



HEARTH AND ALTAR 



OTHER BOOKS 
BY THE SAME AUTHOR 

The Faith and the Fellowship 

Personal Appeals to Sunday School Workers 

Essentials of Evangelism 

The Coming Day 



HEARTH AND ALTAR 

A Book for Family Worship 



OSCAR L. JOSEPH 




ASSOCIATION PRESS 

New York: 347 Madison Avbnub 
1919 



■«lf. 



Copyright, igiPi by the 

International Committee of 

Young Men's Christian Associations 



« t 
« 1 1 



GLA5t5458 



^s^ .. 



To 
CYRIL 

THE LAD OF MY LIFE 
IN THE LAND OF LIGHT 
WHERE ALL IS LOVE 

January 2, 1915- April 29, 1918 



INTRODUCTION 



INTRODUCTION 

The War has made clear that the struggle was be- 
tween two ideals more than between nations. The out- 
come is more than a victory: it is an opportunity for 
the intelligent application of the principles of liberty 
in every condition of life and among all peoples. The 
purpose of the untold sacrifice was well expressed by 
a sergeant, who was going back to his unit after being 
wounded twice. He had a presentiment that he would 
not return and he showed his courage by saying : "But 
I don't mind. It's going to be a better world for the 
kiddies afterwards.'' The home was in the heart of 
this hero, and it was the instinct of the father that 
led him forward to death, for the sake of the welfare 
of the rising generation. In every crisis, the father 
must step into the breach and discharge his high mis- 
sion. 

The home is the best school of character and the 
center of the finest culture. The contagion of moral 
and spiritual idealism makes for bright surroundings 
and healthy pleasures. The atmosphere of religion is 
an inspiration and a safeguard, whose influence has 
been beneficial and far-reaching. The absence of it is 
a most serious loss and a fatal menace, more especially 
in these days, when we are threatened by atheism in 
the city, paganism in the country, and materialism 
everjrwhere. The conditions of industrial, commercial, 
and social life are making subtle invasions into the 

vii 



INTRODUCTION 

sanctity of the home. We must see to it that the 
sacred ties which hold the family together in a com- 
plete circle are strengthened by the inner springs, 
whose source is God. 

One of the established means which made family 
religion fertile and fruitful was the practice of family 
prayers. This impressive expression of family faith 
is no longer common nor popular. It does not neces- 
sarily follow that religion is not present where the 
family altar does not exist ; but we must acknowledge 
that the religious life, in all its bearings, receives a 
greater stimulus where it is honored and used. The 
altar sanctifies and strengthens the hearth. It helps 
to cultivate the habits of reverence, dignity, and honor. 
The public exercises of the sanctuary are more apt to 
be better sustained by those who observe home wor- 
ship than by those who neglect it. 

Many parents desire to restore or introduce this 
wholesome practice; but they are doubtless confused 
as to ways and means. To be sure, it cannot be 
observed according to traditional ways, nor indeed 
would it be advisable. Where the father has to take 
the morning train and the children must hurry to 
school or the older members go to business, the best 
time for family prayers is soon after the evening 
meal, when all the family is generally present. The 
important question is not how much time should be 
given to it. The more urgent fact is the spirit of faith 
and reverence in which it is carried out, and its regular 
observance throughout the year. Five minutes given 
to this ennobling exercise, from day to day, will bring 

viii 



INTRODUCTION 

the blessing of heaven on the home and enable parents 
and children to enjoy the favor of God and the peace 
divine, which passeth all understanding. 

The chapters in this little book are arranged so 
that the whole family could participate. The Scrip- 
ture passage at the opening is to be recited in concert. 
Next comes the portion for the evening followed by 
the prayer, both to be read by the father, after which 
all unite in the Lord's Prayer. Provision is also made 
for special days of the year. Let it be emphasized 
that the father is the priest of the family and the 
legitimate leader of family devotions. 

This volume was prepared for my own family, and 
it has worked so well that I am sharing it with others, 
with the prayer that every home in the land may enjoy 
in fullest measure the goodness, the grace, and the 
guidance of the Father, from whom every family is 
named. 

O. L. J. 

January 2, 1919. 



IX 



CONTENTS 

PAGE 

Introduction vii 

First Week General Confession 2 

Second Week Praise 16 

Third Week Prayer 30 

Fourth Week The Glory of Christ 44 

Fifth Week The Gospel of Salvation . . 58 

Sixth Week Public Worship 72 

Seventh Week The Christian Home 86 

Eighth Week Faith 100 

Ninth Week The Faithful 114 

Tenth Week Fear 128 

Eleventh Week. . . Divine Guidance 142 

Twelfth Week The Christian Life 156 

Thirteenth Week. Christian Living 170 

Special Days 184 



In every thing by prayer and supplication with 
thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto 
God. And the peace of God, which passeth all un- 
derstanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through 
Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4: 6, 7, 



OUR Father, which art in heaven, 
hallowed be Thy name. Thy king- 
dom come. Thy will be done in earth, as 
it is in heaven. Give us this day otir 
daily bread. And forgive us our tres- 
passes, as we forgive them that trespass 
against us. And lead us not into tempta- 
tion ; but deliver us from evil : for Thine 
is the kingdom, and the power, and the 
glory, for ever. Amen. 



1st Weeki GENERAL CONFESSION 

Sunday J 



Sunday: CONFIDENCE IN GOD 

O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and 
knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- 
ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of 
him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to 
whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans ii : 33, 36. 

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for 
us, who can be against us? 

He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up 
for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us 
all things? 

Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? 
It is God that justifieth. 

Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, 
yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right 
hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall 
tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or 
nakedness, or peril, or sword? 

As it is written. For thy sake we are killed all the day 
long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors 
through him that loved us. 

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor 
angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, 
nor things to come. 

Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be 
able to separate us from the love of God, which is in 
Christ Jesus our Lord. — Romans 8: 31-39. 

We magnify Thy name, O Lord God, for the many 
precious promises which have always sustained Thy people 
in the dark and cloudy days as well as in the bright and 
happy days. They were able to endure and persevere be- 
cause they realized Thy presence which gave them courage 
and steadfastness. They thus rejoiced in all their experi- 
[2] 



GENERAL CONFESSION U^t Week 

iSunday 

ences. This testimony to Thy faithfulness has been heard 
in every generation and continues to our day. We pray 
for a deepening of our own faith in Thy love and power. 
May we not measure Thy thoughts by the thumb-rule of 
our limited experiences ; but may we receive a fuller under- 
standing of Thy far-reaching purposes of redemption and 
be influenced by them to advance towards higher and 
larger stages of service. Let us be assured that so long 
as we remain in union with Thee, we are equal to any 
duty or difficulty. Keep us in the fellowship of divine 
love, that we may be profitably active in the fellowship of 
kindred spirits, as we seek to establish and extend the 
Kingdom of Christ in our own midst and throughout the 
world. May the day be near when the praises of the 
blessed Redeemer shall be heard in all the earth. Look 
on our family with love, and may the blessing we seek 
for ourselves be also granted to every family, through 
Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[3] 



i^^ ^^*1 GENERAL CONFESSION 

Monday J 



Monday: THE CHRISTIAN I#EAL 

O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and 
knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- 
ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of 
him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to 
whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans 1 1 : 33, 36. 

Blessed are the poor in spirit : for theirs is the kingdom 
of heaven. 

Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be com- 
forted. 

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. 

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after right- 
eousness: for they shall be filled. 

Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. 

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. 

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called 
the children of God. 

Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteous- 
ness' sake : for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and per- 
secute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you 
falsely, for my sake. 

Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your re- 
ward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets 
which were before you. — Matthew 5: 3-12. 

O Lord God, gracious and true, we are aware that Thy 
thoughts concerning us are for our highest attainments 
in character. Thou dost desire all men to be saved and 
to come to a knowledge of Thy truth in Jesus Christ. May 
we learn that real well-being does not consist in material 
wealth, but in the possession of character. We are glad to 
know that the most perfect ideal was attained by our 
blessed Master. If we adopt His spirit, we also can have 
His attitude of mind and heart toward the heavenly 
[4] 



GENERAL CONFESSION V^t Week 

{.Monday 

Father and toward all people. We realize that this is 
the supreme need of our times. We therefore pray that 
this pattern of life may so impress our mind, quicken our 
emotions, and impel our will, that we may daily direct our 
course in accord with it. So shall we find the secret of 
happiness and be enabled to share it with others. May a 
similar desire for such exalted devotion be granted to all 
Thy people. Let them show that all their undertakings 
are begun, continued, and ended with a determination to 
honor Thee in all things. May the influence of the Chris- 
tian home purify and beautify every community, and grant 
the joy of the Lord to all who love Thee in sincerity and 
truth, in the name of Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[5] 



1st Weeki GENERAL CONFESSION 

Tuesday J 



Tuesday: FIDELITY TO GOD 

the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and 
knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- 
ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of 
him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to 
whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans ii : 33, 36. 

But godliness with contentment is great gain. 

For we brought nothing into this world, and it is cer- 
tain we can carry nothing out. 

And having food and raiment, let us be therewith con- 
tent. 

But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a 
snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which 
drown men in destruction and perdition. 

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which 
while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, 
and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 

But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow 
after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, 
meekness. 

Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, 
whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good 
profession before many witnesses. 

1 give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth 
all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius 
Pilate witnessed a good confession; 

That thou keep this commandment without spot, \mre- 
bukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: 

Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed 
and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords ; 

Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which 
no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor 
can see : to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. 
— I Timothy 6:6-16. 

Almighty God, we come to Thee in the name §f Jesus 
Christ, Thy Son, our Saviour. Accept our thanks and 
gratitude for the mercies which have surrounded and sus- 
[6] 



GENERAL CONFESSION \ist Week 

iTueaaay 

tained us this day. In view of what Thou hast been to us, 
we are confident of the unknown future and we commit 
ourselves to Thee for the night, for tomorrow, and for 
all time. May we be zealous to do Thy will. Keep us 
free from selfishness and bitterness, especially when the 
struggle seems to go hard against us. May we be firm 
in our allegiance to Jesus our Master, and, remembering 
His fidelity in the face of opposition, show a similar spirit. 
Comfort those who sorrow. Encourage the timid and 
faint-hearted. Strengthen those who are tempted. Quicken 
the indifferent and careless to a sense of their obligation. 
Enrich the labors of the faithful, that they may abound 
yet more and more in all good works. Guide the leaders 
of our nation in every walk of life. Grant Thy bene- 
diction to all who are in need of special help, and may 
they and we and all Thy people ever keep true to Jesus 
Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[7] 



1st Week 1 GENERAL CONFESSION 

Weanesdayji 



Wednesday: TOLERANCE AND PRESSURE 

O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and 
knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- 
ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of 
him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to 
whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans 1 1 : 33, 36. 

And John answered and said, Master, we saw one cast- 
ing out devils in thy name: and we forbade him, because 
he foUoweth not with us. 

And Jesus said unto him. Forbid him not: for he that 
is not against us is for us. 

And it came to pass, when the time was come that he 
should be received up, he steadfastly set his face to go 
to Jerusalem. 

And sent messengers before his face: and they went, 
and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make 
ready for him. 

And they did not receive him, because his face was as 
though he would go to Jerusalem. 

And when his disciples James and John saw this, they 
said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down 
from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? 

But he turned, and rebuked them, and said. Ye know 
not what manner of spirit ye are of. 

For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, 
but to save them. And they went to another village. 

And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a 
certain man said unto him. Lord, I will follow thee 
whithersoever thou goest. 

And Jesus said unto him. Foxes have holes, and birds 
of the air have nests ; but the Son of man hath not where 
to lay his head. 

And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said. 
Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. 

Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead; but 
go thou and preach the kingdom of God. 

And another also said. Lord, I will follow thee; but 
let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at 
my house. 

[8] 



GENERAL CONFESSION liSLF^i 

iWednesaay 

And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand 
to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom 
of God. — Luke 9 : 49-62. 

We thank Thee, O Lord, for the companionship if Jesus 
Christ. We think of him as Saviour, Teacher, and Lord, 
and our hearts are lifted up. We also think of Him as our 
Friend, and that brings to mind His sympathy, charity, 
and compassion, which encourage us in our work. May 
we always remember that this holy friendship calls for 
vigilant loyalty and devotion on our part. May we have 
more of the spirit and mind of Christ, that all our activity 
may be begun and continued in exact accord with His will. 
May we daily experience the solace and strength that 
come from prayer; and let all Thy people know that, 
through supplication and intercession, great and notable 
events have always been accomplished. Let the spirit of 
prayer come upon the whole Church, and may we rejoice 
in the fellowship of intercession which leads to the prac- 
tice of deeds of kindness. May we commend Thy grace 
by our lives of self-control, patience, and eagerness, free 
from reckless passion, bitter discord, and ignorant conceit. 
May we engage ourselves in the service of others, in the 
name of Him who went about doing good, and so prove 
to be worthy friends of the blessed Jesus. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



m 



Th^^ay\ GENERAL CONFESSION 



Thursday: ENTHUSIASTIC CHRISTIANS 

O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and 
knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- 
ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of 
him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to 
whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans 1 1 : 33, 36. 

Now they which were scattered abroad upon the per- 
secution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as 
Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word 
to none but unto the Jews only. 

And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, 
which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the 
Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. 

And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great 
number believed, and turned unto the Lord. 

Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the 
church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth 
Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. 

Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, 
was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of 
heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 

For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost 
and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. 

Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: 

And when he had found him, he brought him unto 
Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they 
assembled themselves with the church, and taught much 
people. And the disciples were called Christians first 
in Antioch. — Acts 11 : zg-26. 

O Lord God, Thou art the hope of all the earth. Men 
have sought Thee in divers ways, and they have never 
been left to their own devices, for Thou hast spoken at 
many times and under different circumstances through 
prophets and saints. Those who answered when Thou 
didst call found peace and received strength and were 
[10] 



GENERAL CONFESSION [{?£ ^•f* 

IThuraday 

ready for larger revelations of Thy will and for more 
heroic adventures in Thy name. Thy greatest and richest 
word has been spoken through Jesus Christ, and the vision 
of Him has given us pardon, joy, and courage. May we 
be faithful witnesses of His boundless grace, so that the 
leaven of the Gospel of redemption may influence, trans- 
form, and bless all nations, even to the uttermost part of 
the earth. Bless the missionary enterprise of the Church. 
May what has been done be an earnest of the greater 
performances and achievements in the coming days. As 
we think of the faithful men and women who labored for 
the Gospel's sake in former days, and often under dis- 
comforts, we pray that we of these later days may advance 
yet further the triumphs of Christ. May there be a deep- 
ening of the devotion, an enriching of the experience, an 
intensifying of the activities of the Church and a multi- 
plying of results to the greater glory of Thy grace through 
Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[11] 



istweeM GENERAL CONFESSION 

Frtday 1 



Friday: THE GROWING KINGDOM 

O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and 
knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- 
ments, and his ways past finding out! . . . For of 
him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to 
whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans 1 1 : 33, 36. 

And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man 
should cast seed into the ground; 

And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed 
should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. 

For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the 
blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. 

But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he 
putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come. 

And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of 
God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? 

It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is 
sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in 
the earth: 

But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh 
greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; 
so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow 
of it. — Mark 4:26-32. 

Another parable spr.ke he unto them; The kingdom of 
heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and 
hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was 
leavened. — Matthew 13:33. 

We bless Thy name, O God, for the quiet influences of 
Thy Spirit exercised through many agencies, in every age 
and land. We are often inclined to think of Thy presence 
only in connection with what we call big events. We are 
apt to overlook the fact that even in the lesser and smaller 
affairs of life Thou art graciously present. May we learn 
not to judge by appearances alone, but be patient to find 
[12] 



GENERAL CONFESSION fi^^J^^* 

out the real worth of life. Give us more of the mind of 
the Master, that we may be confident of the steady growth 
of truth and the certain conquest of Christ, whose King- 
dom is without frontiers. May the power of Christ be 
more increasingly manifested in the clash of nations, and 
out of the confusions and desolations of war may there 
come a better day "for all peoples. May we b^vare of the 
glamor of mere success and test every achievement by the 
holiness and goodness of Jesus our Saviour. !May the 
Church know its appointed task in these days of many 
demands and opportunities, and be faithful in the full dis- 
charge of it, for the building up of a bereaved and broken 
world. Bless our home and every home in all lands for 
Christ's sake. 

The Lord's Prayi^ 



[IS] 



^^^^32*] GENERAL CONFESSION 



Saturday: OUR RESPONSIBILITY 

O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and 
knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judg- 
ments, and^ his ways past finding out ! . . . For of 
him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to 
whom be glory for ever. Amen. — Romans 1 1 : 33, 36. 

And he began again to teach by the sea side : and there 
was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he 
entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole 
multitude was by the sea on the land. 

And he taught them many things by parables, and said 
unto them in his doctrine. 

Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow: 
^ And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way 
side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up. 

And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much 
earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no 
depth of earth: 

But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because 
it had no root, it withered away. 

And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, 
and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. 

And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that 
sprang up and increased; and brought iorth, some thirty, 
and some sixty, and some a hundred. 

And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let 
him hear. — Mark 4: 1-9. 

Almighty Father, we praise Thee for the goodness and 
mercy that have been our portion during this week. We 
are thankful for the benefits of health, the comforts of 
home, the freedom of country, the liberty of religion, and 
above all for the assurance that Jesus Christ is our per- 
sonal Saviour. We pray that the blessings of the Gospel 
may continue to spread among the sons of men and that 
all who hear its blessed and bountiful tidings of redemp- 
[14] 



GENERAL CONFESSION Ujt Wee* 

tion and relief may respond thoughtfully, earnestly, and 
heartily. We pray for the Church and its many activities. 
May the spirit of worship and the practice of prayer be 
greatly increased, for thus only can the work of the 
Church produce really worth-while and beneficial results. 
Manifest Thy presence wherever Thy people meet tomor- 
row. Give grace to Thy ministering servants, that the 
services may be profitable to all the people, making them 
more devoted and loyal to all the interests of Thy King- 
dom in every land. Be with the sick and shut-in, the 
aged and feeble, and all who are kept away from the 
sanctuary, and may they find that wherever they are Thou 
art present, and that to bless. Hftsten the day when the 
nations, from the least to the greatest, will acknowledge 
the supremacy of Christ and guide their policies according 
to His will. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[15] 



3d Weeky PRAISE 

Sunday J 



Sunday: JOYFUL PRAISE 

O praise the Lord, all ye nations : praise him, all ye 
people. 

For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and 
the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye 
the Lord. — Psalm 117. 

O sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done 
marvellous things : his right hand, and his holy arm, hath 
gotten him the victory. 

The Lord hath made known his salvation: his right- 
eousness hath he opeijly shewed in the sight of the 
heathen. 

He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward 
the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen 
the salvation of our God. 

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth: make 
a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise. 

Sing imto the Lord with the harp; with the harp, and 
the voice of a psalm. 

With trimipets and sound of cornet make a joyful noise 
before the Lord, the King. 

Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof; the world, 
and they that dwell therein. — Psalm 98 : 1-7. 

We thank Thee, O Lord, for the vision of victory and 
for the actual deeds of the redeemed of every age and 
clime. What a mighty host of loyal men and women have 
honored Thee in their lives, who had no regard for com- 
fort where character was in danger. They acknowledged 
the grace of our Saviour Christ, by whose sacrifice on 
the Cross they obtained forgiveness of sin and the renewal 
of life. They always had regard to Him as their Example 
and Inspiration, and when they were tempted to take 
counsel with sin they were strengthened to resist evil 
and to follow the good. May the company of such faith- 
[16] 



PRAISE \i<^ ^J^^ 

ISunaay 

ful ones increase and may their testimony abound to the 
honor of Thy grace. Accept our praises for the benefits 
which we have enjoyed as a family, and teach us to re- 
gard losses and sorrows as part of our lot in life, that 
we may accept them not in a spirit of cowardly complain- 
ing but in the spirit of courageous endurance. May Thy 
presence be realized in every home that is afflicted, and 
may the assurance of immortality steady the lives that 
w^ould otherwise be unbalanced by despair. Unite our 
hearts to fear Thy name in filial reverence and love. May 
we find contentment and peace in the constant and con- 
tinuous consolations of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[17] 



2d Week-\ PRAISE 

Monday J 



Monday: SINCERE GRATITUDE 

O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all 
ye people. 

For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and 
the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye 
the Lord. — Psalm 117. 

And in that day thou shalt say, O Lord, I will praise 
thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is 
turned away, and thou comfortedst me. 

Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be 
afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; 
he also is become my salvation. 

Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out o£ the wells 
of salvation. 

And in that day shall ye say, Praise the Lord, call upon 
his name, declare his doings among the people, make 
mention that his name is exalted. 

Sing unto the Lord; for he hath done excellent things: 
this is known in all the earth. 

Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion: for great 
is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee. — Isaiah 
12: 1-6. 

Thou, O Lord, art a God of majesty and mercy, and we 
celebrate Thy works of salvation with hearty thanksgiv- 
ing. Thy deeds of deliverance are manifested throughout 
the earth, and proofs of Thy gracious dealings are seen 
on every hand and in every land. Change and uncertainty 
are the experience of mankind, but Thou art the same in 
all generations — a Refuge and Strength to those who trust 
in Thee. When the needy called upon Thee, they were 
heard, and Thou didst comfort them in misfortune and sor- 
row. They were hard pressed by adversity ; but Thou didst 
sustain and guide them in the dark and evil days. They 
[18] 



PRAISE I'd Week 

IMonaay 

were alarmed and distracted by rumor and report and 
it seemed as though their future were going to be one 
of shallows and miseries. Then Thou didst open an unex- 
pected door which brought relief and their later days were 
better than their former. When so many express gratitude 
for Thy wondrous providence, we summon courage for 
ourselves. While we praise Thee for all that has come 
our way, we also pray that Thy blessing may be given to 
all troubled and anxious ones, that they may learn to see 
the silver lining in every cloud. May we receive the 
pledges of Thy guidance with readiness, and follow the 
light from morn till eve, and all the time, through Jesus 
Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[191 



3d WeeAl PRAISE 

TuesdayX 



Tuesday: WHAT IS MAN? 

O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all 
ye people. 

For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and 
the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye 
the Lord. — Psalm 117. 

O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the 
earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens. 

Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou or- 
dained strength because of thine enemies, that thou 
mightest still the enemy and the avenger. 

When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, 
the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained ; 

What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the 
son of man, that thou visitest him? 

For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, 
and hast crowned him with glory and honour. 

Thou madest him to have dominion over the works 
of thy hands ; thou hast put all things under his feet : 

All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; 

The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and what- 
soever passeth through the paths of the seas. 

O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the 
earth! — Psalm 8: 1-9. 

We thank Thee, O blessed God, for Thy consideration 
of us. For the many tokens of Thy love and goodness, 
we lift up our hearts in praise to Thee. May our apprecia- 
tion of Thy benefits be seen in the way we live. Thou hast 
been found of all who sought Thee and they have cele- 
brated their discoveries by word and deed. Thou didst 
accept their service, not according to their knowledge of 
Thy will, but according to the spirit of love shown, as they 
were faithful to their light. They who ardently aspire 
after Thee are always acceptable in Thy sight, and we are 
[20] 



PRAISE fi'"*'r* 

iTueaday 

glad of this. May we zealously and earnestly exalt Thy 
name, which reveals the character of Thy holiness and 
kindness. Since we are privileged with the complete 
revelation of Thyself in Jesus Christ, may we show forth 
Thy praises with greater ardor, and may the worship of 
our lives ever make known the praises of Him who has 
brought us out of darkness into the joy and satisfaction 
of his marvellous light. Forgive what is unworthy and 
inconsistent in our lives, and stir within us the flame of 
divine love, that our behavior towards God and man may 
be suggestive of the spirit of our Saviour and Lord. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[21] 



?x?5''**^ 1 PRAISE 

Wednesday! 



Wednesday: HEARTY THANKSGIVING 

O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all 
ye people. 

For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and 
the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye 
the Lord. — Psalm 117. 

Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, 
bless his holy name. 

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his 
benefits: 

Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all 
thy diseases; 

Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who 
crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; 

Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that 
thy youth is renewed like the eagle's. ... 

Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth 
them that fear him. 

For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we 
are dust. 

As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the 
field, so he flourisheth. 

For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone: and the 
place thereof shall know it no more. 

But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to ever- 
lasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness 
unto children's children; 

To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remem- 
ber his commandments to do them. 

The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; 
and his kingdom ruleth over all. 

Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, 
that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of 
his word. 

Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, 
that do his pleasure. 

Bless the Lord, all his works in all places of his 
dominion: bless the Lord, O my soul. — Psalm 103: 1-5, 
13-22. 

[22] 



PRAISE \2d Week 

^Wednesday 

O Thou Redeemer of our lives, we meet at the close of 
this day to praise Thee, from whom all blessings flow. We 
would join our hearts in thanksgiving for what we have 
received at Thy bountiful hands, far exceeding our merit 
and more than we could number. A steady stream of 
manifold mercies has flowed towards us up to the present 
time. These marks of love divine have dispelled the 
darkness, lightened our burdens, and made clear our ways. 
As we rejoice to salute the morning of a bright day, so 
may we be glad that the Sun of righteousness, with heal- 
ing in His wings, sheds His gracious rays upon our lives. 
May we remember that Thou art present even when the 
day of gloom is on us. On such occasions increase our 
faith, that we may be possessed of calmness of spirit 
through confidence in Thee. May all who have such faith 
keep growing strong and not be weary in well doing. May 
the counsels and comforts of the Gospel receive due regard 
from us and may we make it our concern to add to our 
faith virtue, knowledge, self-control, endurance, piety, 
brotherly kindness, and love and so abound in the riches 
of Thy grace, through Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[23] 



2d Week 1 PRAISE 

Thursday J 



Thursday: AN EXULTANT TESTIMONY 

praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all 
ye people. 

For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and 
the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye 
the Lord. — Psalm 117. 

1 will extol thee, my God, O King; and I will bless thy 
name for ever and ever. 

Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy 
name for ever and ever. 

Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his 
greatness is unsearchable. 

One generation shall praise thy works to another, and 
shall declare thy mighty acts. 

I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, 
and of thy wondrous works. 

And men shall speak of the might of thy terrible acts: 
and I will declare thy greatness. 

They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great 
goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness. 

The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion; slow 
to anger, and of great mercy. 

The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are 
over all his works. 

All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord; and thy saints 
shall bless thee. 

They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom, and 
talk of thy power; 

To make known to the sons of men his mighty acts, 
and the glorious majesty of his kingdom. 

Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and thy 
dominion endureth throughout all generations. — Psalm 
145: 1-13. 

O Lord our God, we wait on Thee in the quiet of this 
evening hour, and bless Thy name for the help which we 
have received from Thee in the performance of our vari- 
[24] 



PRAISE [^^>v~*^ 

ous duties. We join in the chorus of thanks that con- 
tinuously comes before the throne of grace from a count- 
less multitude of grateful souls in all parts of the wide 
world. Thou dost lift up those who fall, and strengthen 
those who fail, so that their hope is quickened and their 
courage renewed. All through the years, Thou hast been 
the Refuge and Guide of succeeding generations. But 
Thy arm is not yet shortened, nor art Thou weary in 
imparting wisdom and endurance to us out of the vast 
storehouse of Thy spiritual riches. Blessed be the Lord 
God, who is as gracious and generous today as He al- 
ways has been. We rejoice and are glad that this God 
is our God, in whom is our trust, and who has enriched 
and refreshed our lives. When we are tempted to depres- 
sion, may we be revived by the remembrance of Thy 
goodness and keep faith, until the cloud has passed and 
once again we come out into the open sunlight of Thy 
realized presence. Forgive our misdoings, and may we 
be more sensitive to the influences of Thy Spirit and more 
responsive to the appeals of truth and honor, and show 
ourselves the faithful followers of our Lord and Saviour 
Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[25] 



2dWeekl PRAISE 

Friday J 



Friday: HEART-HAPPINESS 

O praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all 
ye people. 

For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and 
the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye 
the Lord. — Psalm 117. 

Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their 
heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, 
Men and brethren, what shall we do? 

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized 
every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the 
remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the 
Holy Ghost. 

For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and 
to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God 
shall call. 

And with many other words did he testify and exhort, 
saying. Save yourselves from this untoward generation. 

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: 
and the same day there were added unto them about three 
thousand souls. 

And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine 
and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 

And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders 
and signs were done by the apostles. 

And all that believed were together, and had all things 
common ; 

And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them 
to all men, as every man had need. 

And they, continuing daily with one accord in the 
temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat 
their meat with gladness and singleness of heart. 

Praising God, and having favour with all the people. 
And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be 
saved. — Acts 2 : 37-47. 

We come to Thee, O gracious God, with true hearts and 
full assurance of faith, praising Thee through Jesus, the 
[26] 



PRAISE fi^.y^* 

Christ. In Thy light shall we see light and have clear con- 
ceptions of truth, fine perceptions of duty, and strength for 
the right discharge of responsibility. Just as the Chris- 
tians of old had gladness of heart because of singleness 
of life, so may our motives be pure that our lives may be 
clean and courageous. Deliver us from the mists which 
belong to the lowlands and lead us to the higher levels 
where the atmosphere is clear and the vision is lucid. 
May we rejoice as we come into deeper sympathy with 
Thy thoughts and purposes. May such an experience be 
given to all Thy people, so that their influence shall spread 
abroad the fear of the Lord and many shall seek and find 
Thee to the joy and rejoicing of their lives. We pray 
for the native Christians on the mission field, that they 
may be brave to bear persecution, strong to suffer losses, 
and patient to withstand opposition. May their lives of 
purity impress the non-Christians and win them to the 
Saviour. May all who name Christ see to it that they are 
sound in the faith and also sound in the happiness of the 
faith and have a Christian experience that is alluring and 
convincing, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[27] 



^^^1 PRAISE 



Saturday: A TIMELY EXHORTATION 

praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all 
ye people. 

For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and 
the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye 
the Lord. — Psalm 117. 

1 will bless the Lord at all times : his praise shall con- 
tinually be in my mouth. 

My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble 
shall hear thereof, and be glad. 

magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name 
together. 

1 sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me 
from all my fears. 

They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their 
faces were not ashamed. 

This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved 
him out of all his troubles. 

The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them 
that fear him, and delivereth them. 

O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the 
man that trusteth in him. 

O fear the Lord, ye his saints: for there is no want 
to them that fear him. 

The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they 
that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing. 

Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you 
the fear of the Lord. 

What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many 
days, that he may see good? 

Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking 
guile. 

Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue 
it. — Psalm 34: 1-14. 

We come before Thee, our Father, at the close of an- 
other week and celebrate the grace divine which has con- 
ferred so many mercies on us. Thy promises have been 
[28] 



PRAISE [^^Z% 

our comfort ; Thy presence has brought us gladness ; Thy 
peace has renewed and revived our lives. May we increas- 
ingly confide in Thee, commune with Thee, and confess 
Thee from day to day. May we all follow on to know 
Thee, O Lord, in the intimacies of genuine friendship and 
in the confidences of holy fellowship. May there be 
growth in grace accompanied with growth in the knowl- 
edge of our Lord Jesus Christ. We pray that the Church 
services tomorrow may become means of grace and of 
benediction to all who attend. May the preachers proclaim 
the evangel with certainty of conviction and jubilation 
of spirit. Let all who hear the preaching turn away from 
foolishness and frivolity, and follow the bright shining 
light that leadeth to the new day of fraternity, sympathy, 
liberty, and opportunity. May the family do its full share 
to keep all its members in the way of holiness and blessed- 
ness. May the home, the school, and the church unite to 
supplement and complement each other's work, that their 
cooperation may make glad the City of our God and extend 
throughout the earth the Kingdom of Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[29] 



3rd Week] PRAYER 

Sunday J 



Sunday: A DWELLING-PLACE FOR GOD 

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall 
find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For 
everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh 
findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 
— Matthew 7 : 7, 8. 

Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, 
but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household 
of God; 

And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and 
prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner 
stone ; 

In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth 
unto a holy temple in the Lord : 

In whom ye also are builded together for a habitation 
of God through the Spirit. . . . 

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our 
Lord Jesus Christ, 

Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is 
named. 

That he would grant you, according to the riches of 
his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in 
the inner man; 

That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, 
being rooted and grounded in love. 

May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the 
breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 

And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowl- 
edge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. 

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly 
above all that we ask or think, according to the power 
that worketh in us. 

Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus 
throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. — 
Ephesians 2: 19-22; 3: 14-21. 

O Lord, we come to Thee in the quiet of the evening 
hour and bless Thee for this day of rest which has brought 
[30] 



PRAYER \ird Week 

ISunday 

refreshment to the hours of leisure and enabled us to 
profit thereby. May we appreciate the benefits of such 
a day and not misuse it in thoughtless and fruitless ways. 
Let us spend the day in such a manner that the whole 
week may share its benefits. How great is Thy love — 
so patient, so tender, so considerate, so universal. Thou 
hast never failed to favor us. From day to day, without 
any let-up. Thou dost cause Thy sun to rise on the just 
and the unjust, and Thy forbearance is unlimited. Give 
us a right understanding of Thy will, that we may be 
guided by it. Teach us the worth and privilege of prayer, 
that great means whereby we obtain a sense of Thy near 
presence and ability for endurance. Increase our faith 
in Thee as we learn to know more of Thy character 
revealed in such divers ways through deeds of mercy. We 
pray for Thy blessing on all whom we met today and on 
our friends and kindred. May they and we always trust 
Thee and serve Thee with loyalty and faithfulness. As 
Thou dost give us of Thy best for our benefit, may we 
share of our best with those in need, that we may be 
enriched and may spread abroad the virtues of Thy love 
in Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[31] 



3rd Week] PRAYER 

Monday J 



Monday: A FRUITFUL LIFE 

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall 
find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For 
everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh 
findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 

— Matthew 7 : 7, 8. 

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. 

Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh 
away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth 
it, that it may bring forth more fruit. 

Now ye are clean through the word which I have 
spoken unto you. 

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear 
fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can 
ye, except ye abide in me. 

I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth 
in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; 
for without me ye can do nothing. 

If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, 
and is withered ; and men gather them, and cast them into 
the fire, and they are burned. 

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye 
shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done imto you. 

Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; 
so shall ye be my disciples. 

As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: 
continue ye in my love. 

If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my 
love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, 
and abide in his love. 

These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy 
might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. 
— John 15: i-n. 

We realize, O God, that without Thee we are helpless. 

We also know that unless we are daily doing Thy will 

there is no health nor happiness in us. We are further 

certain that the secret of all real living is in Jesus Christ. 

[32] 



PRAYER r^rd Week 

IMonday 

We pray Thee help us to translate these beliefs into prac- 
tice. Give us courage to abide in obedience to Thy com- 
mandments. Thou art not only the source of our joy, 
but the fountain of all life and blessedness. And we have 
learned that ever^^ good and perfect gift comes from Thee, 
v^ith no variation nor shadow made by turning. May we 
daily find well-being from Thy preciousness and let us 
be prompt to bear our testimony to the rich provisions of 
Thy bounty. When profession and practice agree, our 
prayers will carry weight and we shall be truly enabled 
to show forth Thy praises. May we not come to Thee 
only when we are in trouble, as though we regarded Thee 
as a convenience ; but may we live in such intelligent com- 
munion with Thee that whether in joy or sorrow we may 
welcome Thy companionship. Forgive us our neglect and 
indifference and may we always remain steadfast and 
secure in Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[33] 



3rd Wae*] PRAYER 

Tuesday 1 



Tuesday: THE CLIMATE OF THE HEART 

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall 
find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For 
everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh 
findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 
— Matthew 7 : 7, 8. 

Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, 
and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, 
come, buy wine and milk without money and without 
price. 

Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not 
bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? 
hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is 
good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. 

Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your 
soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant 
with you, even the sure mercies of David. . . . 

Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon 
him while he is near: 

Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous 
man his thoughts: and let him return imto the Lord, and 
he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he 
will abundantly pardon. 

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are 
your ways my ways, saith the Lord. 

For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my 
ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your 
thoughts. 

For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from 
heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, 
and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed 
to the sower, and bread to the eater: 

So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth : 
it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish 
that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing 
whereto I sent it. 

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with 
peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth be- 

[34] 



PRAYER \3rd Week 

iTuesctay 

fore you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall 
clap their hands. 

Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and 
instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and 
it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign 
that shall not be cut off. — Isaiah 55: 1-3; 6-13. 

We thank Thee, O God, for the omnipotence of Thy 
grace, so considerate of every condition of life. We are 
prone to seek for satisfaction in the material things of 
life and to ignore Thee; but no one has found real happi- 
ness in such courses. It is only in Thee that we have 
peace, and it is as we diligently keep in the path of purity 
that we are contented and blessed. May we learn Thy 
thoughts concerning us, so that Thy promises and precepts 
may direct us in the way of truth and faithfulness. May 
the joy of Thy salvation uphold us, and the benefits of 
Thy grace stimulate us for every good word and work. 
Let us remember that we have not only privileges to 
enjoy, but also duties to perform. May those who are 
fortunate realize a responsibility to the sons of misfortune. 
Look on the world that is recovering from the welter of 
war. May the nations lay foundations and build accord- 
ing to Thy will, so that there may never again be an out- 
burst of the spirit of the tiger. May the Spirit of Christ 
govern every life, at home and abroad, and the unity of 
Christian brotherhood be established in every land. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[35] 



3rd Weeek 1 PRAYER 



Wednesday: INTERCESSION FOR ALL 

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall 
find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For 
everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh 
findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 
— Matthew 7 : 7, 8. 

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, 
prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for 
all men; 

For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we 
may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and 
honesty. 

For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God 
our Saviour; 

Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto 
the knowledge of the truth. 

For there is one God, and one mediator between God 
and men, the man Christ Jesus; 

Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in 
due time. 

Whereimto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, 
(I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not,) a teacher of 
the Gentiles in faith and verity. 

I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up 
holy hands, without wrath and doubting. — I Timothy 
2: 1-8. 

We bless Thee, O Lord God of life, that in Thy pres- 
ence there is fulness of joy. Those who find Thee have 
discovered the secret of happiness and usefulness. Since 
Thy word is sure and Thy purposes secure, may we commit 
ourselves to Thee to carry out Thy will in all things. May 
we understand that true honor does not consist in place 
or position, but depends on purity of motive and con- 
sistency of life, wherever our lot may be cast. The world's 
[36] 



PRAYER fS?'J^^i 

IWeanesaay 

work is done by a division of labor. Some are called to 
lead and others to follow; but both are necessary and the 
results can be profitable only as there is a spirit of mutual 
confidence and cooperation. We realize the responsibility 
of the several leaders of our nation and that they must 
have the good will of all the people. We pray for our 
President, the Governors of the States, and all legislators 
and executives in law, commerce, labor, education, philan- 
thropy, and religion. We also pray for the entire citizen- 
ship of our land, and for all homes and places of business. 
May God be duly recognized everywhere and the spirit 
of kindly helpfulness and fraternal comity prevail among 
all nations. Thus only can suspicion, bitterness, and 
enmity be expelled and there dawn that better day of faith, 
sympathy, and hope, through Jesus Christ, the Lord of 
all good life. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[37] 



3rd WeeAl PRAYER 

Thuradayl 



Thursday: THE SYMPATHIZING GOD 

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall 
find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For 
everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh 
findeth ; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 
— Matthew 7 : 7, 8. 

Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. 

Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, 
that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is 
pardoned: for she hath received of the Lord's hand 
double for all her sins. 

The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare 
ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a 
highway for our God. 

Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and 
hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made 
straight, and the rough places plain: 

And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all 
flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the Lord 
hath spoken it. . . . 

To whom then will ye liken me, or shall I be equal? 
saith the Holy One. 

Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created 
these things, that bringeth out their host by number: 
he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his 
might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth. 

Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My 
way is hid from the Lord, and my judgment is passed 
over from my God? 

Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the 
everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the 
earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no search- 
ing of his imderstanding. 

He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have 
no might he increaseth strength. 

Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the 
young men shall utterly fall: 

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their 
strength; they shall moimt up with wings as eagles; 
[38] 



PRAYER \3rd Week 

iThursday 

they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, 
and not faint. — Isaiah 40: 1-5; 25-31. 

O Lord, help us to have a deeper view of Thy unfailing 
goodness. We are often tempted to question Thy love, 
especially when difficulty attacks us and sorrow visits us. 
We murmur and grow restless and impatient, and feel 
that we are unjustly treated. But such conclusions are 
due to our shortsightedness. We do not take time to con- 
sider that much of the distress of the world is due to 
man's ignorance, sinfulness, and carelessness. We per- 
sonally may be free from particular blame, but as vre are 
members of society, we are called to share what of it is 
good and evil. Enlighten us, O God, to a sense of social 
responsibility and may we realize that it is as each one 
does his share that evil and wrongdoing can finally be 
removed. Let us be conscious of Thy guiding hand and 
comforting presence and not become weary or faint- 
hearted, but hold firm to Thy counsels, obtain the uplift 
of prayer and follow close after the Lord Christ, whose 
sympathy and benediction are the joy and rejoicing of our 
lives. We pray not only for our family, that we may have 
these blessings, but for every family, that we may all make 
the eternal God our Refuge and know that underneath are 
the everlasting Arms, to sustain and strengthen and 
sanctify us, for His name's sake. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[39] 



SrdWeekl PRAYER 

Friday J 



Friday : SINCERITY AND UNITY 

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall 
find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For 
everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh 
findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 
— Matthew 7 : 7, 8. 

Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be 
seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your 
Father which is in heaven. 

Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a 
trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the syna- 
gogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of 
men. Verily I say unto you. They have their reward. 

But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know 
what thy right hand doeth: 

That thine alms may be in secret : and thy Father which 
seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. 

And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypo- 
crites are: for they love to pray standing in the syna- 
gogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may 
be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their 
reward. 

But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, 
and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father 
which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret 
shall reward thee openly. 

But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the 
heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for 
their much speaking. 

Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father 
knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask 
him. — Matthew 6: i-8. 

Again I say unto you. That if two of you shall agree 
on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall 
be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. 

For where two or three are gathered together in my 
name, there am I in the midst of them. — Matthew i8: 
ig, 20. 

[40] 



PRAYER nrdWeek 

{.Friday 

Teach us, O Lord, how to pray with gladsome confidence. 
Thou dost not consider the many words, but the earnest 
spirit and the sincere motive. We do not have to flatter 
Thee with our wordy speeches nor tire Thee with noivSy 
petitions. In the matter of prayer, may we follow the 
practice of our Master. In the early morning, before the 
distractions of the day, and at even, after the labors of 
the day. He sought Thy presence and received refreshment 
and repose. He was thus able to meet difficulties without 
fear, to perform His duties with faith and to carry with 
Him the atmosphere of spiritual fragrance. Let us always 
see to it that our heart is fixed trusting in God, and that 
our life is hid with Christ in God. With such an experi- 
ence, we can dispel anxiety, acquire firmness, become love- 
worthy, and honor Thee with our substance and in all 
things. We thank Thee that Thou hast not failed us at 
any time and we pray that the spirit of trustfulness and 
trustworthiness may give the right tone to our life. May 
we find that through prayer, closed doors can be opened, 
hard tasks accomplished, heavy burdens borne, and charac- 
ter made the better for the discipline. Keep us in Thy 
love, through Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[41] 



3rdWeek'l PRAYER 

Saturday} 



Saturday: ASSURANCE FROM EXPERIENCE 

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall 
find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For 
everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh 
findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 
— Matthew 7 : 7, 8. 

I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto 
me, and heard my cry. 

He brought me up also out of a horrible pit, out of 
the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and estab- 
lished my goings. 

And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise 
unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust 
in the Lord. 

Blessed is that man that maketh the Lord his trust, and 
respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies. 

Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which 
thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: 
they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee : if I would 
declare and speak of them, they are more than can be 
numbered. 

Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears 
hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast 
thou not required. 

Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book 
it is written of me, 

I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is 
within my heart. 

I have preached righteousness in the great congrega- 
tion: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O Lord, thou 
kngwest. 

I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I 
have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have 
not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the 
great congregation. 

Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O 
Lord: let thy lovingkindness and thy truth continually 
preserve me. — Psalm 40: i-ii. 

[42] 



PRAYER [3^<J_^ee* 

Truly, a mighty fortress is our God. In the hour of 
temptation and struggle, Thou hast come to the relief of 
Thy people and they have praised Thy name for the 
enduring goodness of Thy grace. We join with the ran- 
somed in celebrating Thy benefits. The divine promises 
have increased our courage and we have been strengthened 
to overcome sin. Implant Thy Spirit of freedom more 
deeply in our heart, that we may delight to do Thy will 
and scorn whatever is unworthy of Thy truth. May we 
be alert to obey Thee with the promptness of the angelic 
hosts, that Thy will may be done on earth as it is in 
heaven. Look upon us, members of a family, who offer 
to Thee the worship of gratitude. Remember all who are 
absent from us and guide them towards a closer walk with 
Thee. Bless every home in the land. Be specially gracious 
to those who are bearing the weight of sorrow and may 
they be sustained by the consolations of the Gospel of 
the living, the loving, and the lifting Christ. May we 
all continue in the patience of faith, in the endurance 
of hope, and in the practice of love, until the day dawns 
and these shadows flee away. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[43] 



4ih weeki THE GLORY OF CHRIST 

Sunday J 



Sunday: THE LIGHT OF LIFE 

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy- 
laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon 
you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in 
heart : and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my 
yoke is easy, and my burden is light. — Matthew ii: 
28-30. 

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with 
God, and the Word was God. 

The same was in the beginning with God. 

AU things were made by him; and without him was not 
any thing made that was made. 

In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 

And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness 
comprehended it not. 

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 

The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the 
Light, that all men through him might believe. 

He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of 
that Light. 

That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that 
Cometh into the world. 

He was in the world, and the world was made by him, 
and the world knew him not. 

He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 

But as many as received him, to them gave he power 
to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on 
his name: 

Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the 
flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. 

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, 
and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begot- 
ten of the Father, full of grace and truth. 

John bare witness of him, and cried, saying. This was 
he of whom I spake. He that cometh after me is pre- 
ferred before me; for he was before me. 

And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for 
grace. 

[44] 



THE GLORY OF CHRIST K^^ J^eic 

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth 
came by Jesus Christ. 

No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten 
Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath de- 
clared him. — John i: 1-18. 

O God of light and truth, we bless Thy name for the 
revelation granted to the human race at different times 
and in many ways. The light of conscience has been a 
faithful guide, showing men what they should do. The 
light of reason has enabled us to consider the meaning 
and purpose of life. The light of nature has shed glory 
on the order and beauty of Thy fair creation. All these 
are but broken lights and they who have followed them 
have walked in the tantalizing twilight, with imperfect 
vision, uncertain understanding, and insecure peace. The 
full light of Thy grace and goodness has come in Jesus 
Christ, who has also brought life and immortality to light 
through the Gospel of redemption. We glorify Thee for 
this full and final revelation, which truly satisfies the 
deepest instincts and desires of the soul. May we accept 
Him as our Saviour from sin. May we follow Him as the 
Teacher of truth. May we honor Him as the Lord of 
life, and seek from day to day to walk worthily of Him 
and for His sake. 

The Lord*s Prayer. 



[45] 



Mon^^*] ^^^ GLORY OF CHRIST 



Monday: OUR STANDARD 

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy 
laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon 
you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in 
heart : and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my 
yoke is easy, and my burden is light. — Matthew 1 1 : 
28-30. 

If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any 
comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any 
bowels and mercies, 

Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the 
same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but 
in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than 
themselves. 

Look not every man on his own things, but every man 
also on the things of others. 

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus : 

Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery 
to be equal with God: 

But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him 
the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness 
of men: 

And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled him- 
self, and became obedient unto death, even the death of 
the cross. 

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given 
him a name which is above every name : 

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, 
of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things imder 
the earth; 

And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ 
is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not 
as in my presence only, but now much more in my 
absence, work out your own salvation with fear and 
trembling : 

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and 
to do of his good pleasure. — Philippians 2: 1-13. 

[46] 



THE GLORY OF CHRIST \ith Week 

iMonaay 

We rejoice in Thee, O God, our Maker, Redeemer, 
Defender, and Friend. May Thy wisdom give us con- 
fidence. May Thy pardoning grace bring us peace. May 
the divine guidance grant us assurance. May Thy pres- 
ence impart to us security and happiness. May we always 
think of Thee with gladness of heart, and be constantly 
controlled by the mind and spirit of Christ. Keep us free 
from stain of sin and eager to follow the law of kindness 
in the way so beautifully shown by our Master. Bless 
all who are near and dear to us, and teach them the way 
of goodness and truth, that they may walk therein. We 
pray for all who profess the name of Christ, that they may 
honor Him by honest thought, sincere word, and love- 
worthy deeds. Thus will the unbelieving world be rightly 
impressed and turn to Thee, who doeth all things well. 
Hear us in these our evening prayers, both for ourselves 
and for our loved ones, far and near, and for all who love 
the Lord Jesus in genuine sincerity and live by His grace 
and for the honor of His name. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[47] 



ith wee/ci THE GLORY OF CHRIST 

Tuesday J 



Tuesday: THE IMPARTIAL GOD 

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy 
laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon 
you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in 
heart : and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my 
yoke is easy, and my burden is light. — Matthew 1 1 : 
28-30. 

Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I 
perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 

But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh 
righteousness, is accepted with him. 

The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, 
preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 

That word, I say, ye know, which was published 
throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee, after the 
baptism which John preached; 

How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy 
Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and 
healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was 
with him. 

And we are witnesses of all things which he did both 
in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they 
slew and hanged on a tree: 

Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him 
openly; 

Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen be- 
fore of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him 
after he rose from the dead. 

And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and 
to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be 
the Judge of quick and dead. 

To him give all the prophets witness, that through his 
name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission 
of sins. 

While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost 
fell on all them which heard the word. 

And they of the circimicision which believed were 
astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that 

[48] 



THE GLORY OF CHRIST {jth Week 

iTuesaay 

on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy 
Ghost. 

For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify 
God. Then answered Peter, 

Can any man forbid water, that these should not be 
baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well 
as we? 

And he commanded them to be baptized in the name 
of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days. 
— Acts 10 : 34-48. 

O God, our Refuge and Redeemer, we come to Thee at 
the close of a busy day and confess our faith in Thee. 
Give us the contented mind and show us that we can best 
please Thee by doing our work honestly and earnestly. 
It does not have all pleasant features. The strain of 
routine becomes irksome; the petty trials and annoyances 
are burdensome; the drudgery is wearisome. But the 
thought of Thy presence with us in the common and daily 
tasks is gladsome. Teach us that we are called to glorify 
Thy name whatsoever we do, whether it be great or small. 
May we recall the ministry of Jesus, which was spent 
among ordinary people, some of whom wxre dull and 
stupid. But His heart of love saw beauty, health, and 
happiness; and He brought these desirable blessings to 
them. Those who accepted Him found that their troubles 
and disturbances passed away and that they were strength- 
ened for the duties of the hour. The benefit of such an 
experience is available for each one of us. May we 
receive it and grow stronger and live in the name of 
Him who went about doing good. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[49] 



4th Week 1 THE GLORY OF CHRIST 

Weanesaayj 



Wednesday: THE CHRISTIAN HOPE 

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy 
laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon 
you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in 
heart : and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my 
yoke is easy, and my burden is light. — Matthew ii: 
28-30. 

And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are 
yet in your sins. 

Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are 
perished. 

If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of 
all men most miserable. 

But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the 
firstfruits of them that slept. 

For since by man came death, by man came also the 
resurrection of the dead. 

For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be 
made alive. 

But every man in his own order : Christ the firstfruits ; 
afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. 

Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up 
the kingdom to God, even the Father ; when he shall have 
put down all rule, and all authority and power. 

For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under 
his feet. 

The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 

For he hath put all things under his feet. But when 
he saith, All things are put under him, it is manifest that 
he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 

And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then 
shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put 
all things under him, that God may be all in all. . . . 

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, im- 
moveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, 
forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in 
the Lord. — I Corinthians 15; 17-28, 58. 

[50] 



THE GLORY OF CHRIST ffi^.^^^i 

tWeanesday 

Glory be to Thee, O God, the strength and inspiration 
of all who are true and pure. In every age and land Thou 
art known, and peoples have found in Thee the precious 
cordial for their hearts. Faith blooms and hope flourishes 
and love bears fruit among those who walk uprightly. 
Thou dost not leave any one in the darkness, for Thou 
art light and the. giver of life. We are certain of the 
universal reign of Christ, when evil and bitterness will 
give way to goodness and kindness, and the God of love 
be supremely exalted. Give us grace to be loyal to the 
living Lord, Jesus Christ our Saviour, and grant us to be 
steadfast as we build on the one foundation which can 
withstand the tests of time and tide and make us finally 
acceptable in the presence of the divine glory. Forgive 
us our sins, keep us in the way everlasting, and sustain 
us by the comforts and inducements of the blessed hope. 
What we ask for ourselves we also seek for all Thy people 
everywhere, in the dear Redeemer's name. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[51] 



rhu^Sy] '^^^ GLORY OF CHRIST 



Thursday: THE UNITING CHRIST 

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy 
laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon 
you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in 
heart : and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my 
yoke is easy, and my burden is light. — Matthew 1 1 : 
28-30. 

Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gen- 
tiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that 
which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by 
hands ; 

That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens 
from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from 
the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without 
God in the world: 

But now, in Christ Jesus, ye who sometime were far 
off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. 

For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath 
broken down the middle wall of partition between us ; 

Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law 
of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make 
in himself of twain one new man, so making peace ; 

And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body 
by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: 

And came and preached peace to you which were afar 
off, and to them that were nigh. 

For through him we both have access by one Spirit 
unto the Father. 

Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, 
but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household 
of God; 

And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and 
prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief comer 
stone ; 

In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth 
unto a holy temple in the Lord: 

In whom ye also are builded together for a habitation 
of God through the Spirit. — Ephesians 2: 11-22. 

[52] 



THE GLORY OF CHRIST \ij£h Week 

iThursaay 

We praise Thee, O God, for the plan of redemption and 
for Thy gracious purpose that no one should perish, but 
that all should come to a knowledge of Thy truth and 
enter into fellowship with Thyself through Jesus Christ. 
He is the world's Saviour and the only Unifier of the 
nations. He is the Prince of peace and through Him those 
who are estranged from one another can be restored to 
friendship. We pray that the leaders of the nations may 
reckon seriously with Jesus Christ and that His mind and 
spirit may influence national and international relation- 
ships. May the Golden Rule be accepted as the standard 
by which all peoples would guide themselves in these days 
of rebuilding the world out of its ruins. May the Church 
have a clear vision of its duty and opportunity, in the 
light of Thy redemptive grace, that all its activities may 
accordingly bring blessing to the whole world. Guide 
the missionaries as they build up a Christian civilization 
in pagan lands, and may the time come when Christ shall 
be honored by all mankind. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



mi 



4thWeeM THE GLORY OF CHRIST 

Friday J 



Friday: THE POPULAR CHRIST 

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy 
laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon 
you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in 
heart : and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my 
yoke is easy, and my burden is light. — Matthew ii: 
28-30. 

And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into 
the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Beth- 
saida, while he sent away the people. 

And when he had sent them away, he departed into a 
mountain to pray. 

And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of 
the sea, and he alone on the land. 

And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was 
contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the 
night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and 
would have passed by them. 

But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they 
supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: 

For they all saw him, and were troubled. And im- 
mediately he talked with them, and saith unto them. Be 
of good cheer : it is I ; be not afraid. 

And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind 
ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond 
measure, and wondered. 

For they considered not the miracle of the loaves; for 
their heart was hardened. 

And when they had passed over, they came into the 
land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore. 

And when they were come out of the ship, straightway 
they knew him. 

And ran through that whole region round about, and 
began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where 
they heard he was. 

And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, 
or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and be- 
sought him that they might touch if it were but the 

[54] 



THE GLORY OF CHRIST [PrldY/^^ 

border of his garment : and as many as touched him were 
made whole. — Mark 6: 45-56. 

We rejoice, O Lord, in the knowledge of Jesus Christ 
as our Saviour. What a satisfaction it is that we need 
not be confused concerning duty and destiny, if we follow 
His clear and compelling precepts. He is the Way, the 
Truth, the Life, and He always comes to our relief at 
the right time. We pray this evening for those who are 
in distress, that they may find from our Master the blessed- 
ness of relief. May the divine presence be vouchsafed 
to them, so that in the storm they may hear Thy voice of 
cheer and be made strong to endure the strain. Let Thy 
blessing of peace enter every home. May anxiety cease 
as loved ones are committed to Thy care. May doubt dis- 
appear by a deepening of faith in Thy power to save and 
guide. May courage come with the assurance of Thy 
ample sufficiency for every emergency. Be gracious unto 
us and let the light of Thy countenance ever be upon us. 
May we all understand the mission of Christ and offer 
to Him the allegiance of devotion, that we may be gener- 
ous helpers of the weak and courteous to all, for Christ's 
sake. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[55] 



4th Weeki THE GLORY OF CHRIST 

Saturday J 



Saturday: CHRISTIAN GROWTH 

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy 
laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon 
you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in 
heart : and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my 
yoke is easy, and my burden is light. — Matthew ii: 
28-30. 

We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord 
Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 

Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of 
the love which ye have to all the saints, 

For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, where- 
of ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel ; 

Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and 
bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the 
day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in 
truth. . . . 

For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do 
not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be 
filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and 
spiritual understanding; 

That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleas- 
ing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing 
in the knowledge of God; 

Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious 
power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joy- 
fulness ; 

Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us 
meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in 
light: 

Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, 
and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 

In whom we have redemption through his blood, even 
the forgiveness of sins: 

Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn 
of every creature: 

For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, 
and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they 

[56] 



THE GLORY OF CHRIST [^ttHl^d^y 

be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all 
things were created by him, and for him: 

And he is before all things, and by him all things 
consist: 

And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the 
beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things 
he might have the preeminence. — Colossians 1:3-6; 9-18. 

We give Thee hearty thanks, O Lord God, for the ful- 
ness of redemption which Thou hast wrought through 
Jesus Christ. The doors have been opened wide into spirit- 
ual liberty and the way of peace is clear. We rejoice that 
Jesus is the great Reconciler and Mediator. Those who 
accept Him need not feel strange to one another, because 
they are impelled by the same motives, even the constrain- 
ing love of Christ. May He be given the central place 
in the life of every Christian. May His Spirit be the 
controlling influence in the midst of the Church. May 
His truth give guidance to the leaders of the nations of 
the earth. May He be considered intelligently and favor- 
ably by commerce and industry, by education and philan- 
thropy, by the home and society. The character of the 
new day which is upon us must be determined by the ideals 
and principles of Jesus Christ. May He receive the pre- 
eminence that rightly belongs to Him. Hasten the time 
of His universally acknowledged supremacy, and to that 
end may we all be found faithful, for Thy name's sake. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[57] 



sth weekx THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION 

Sunday J 



Sunday: THE GLORIOUS GOSPEL 

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only 
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should 
not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent 
not his Son into the world to condemn the world ; but 
that the world through him might be saved. — ^John 
3:16/17. 

Now the end of the commandment is charity out of 
a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith un- 
feigned : 

From which some having swerved have turned aside 
unto vain jangling; 

Desiring to be teachers of the law; imderstanding 
neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm. 

But we know that the law is good, if a man use it 
lawfully. . . . 

And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled 
me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the 
ministry ; 

Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and 
injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it igno- 
rantly in unbelief. 

And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant 
with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. 

This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, 
that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; 
of whom I am chief. 

Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me 
first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for 
a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him 
to life everlasting. 

Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the 
only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. 
Amen. — I Timothy 1:5-8; 12-17. 

Thanks be to Thee, O God, for the Gospel of salvation, 
with its good tidings of great joy to the whole world. 
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THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION \5th Week 

iSunaay 

Wherever it has gone, wonderful changes have been 
wrought in the Hves of men, women, and children. The 
darkness of sin has been dispelled; hatred and cruelty 
have ceased; kindness and friendship have begun; the 
home has been redeemed and blessed; society has been 
established on a firm and fraternal basis. We gratefully 
bless Thy Name because these gracious influences have 
been exercised from age to age and in every land. We 
pray that the Gospel may be proclaimed to the ends of the 
earth and in a more thorough way than it has ever been 
done. Thus only can there be produced the finest types 
of character and the world become the dwelling-place of 
peace. Let the light of Thy love shine with a clearer 
brightness in all our hearts, and help us to become ex- 
amples of courage, honor, and steady devotion to the 
best. May the day of rest be a means of grace, well used 
by Christian people to extend the truth and praise of 
Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[59] 



5th WeeH THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION 

Monday J 



Monday: THE FRIEND OF SINNERS 

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only 
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should 
not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent 
not his Son into the world to condemn the world ; but 
that the world through him might be saved. — ^John 
3 '- i6, 17. 

Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners 
for to hear him. 

And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This 
man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. 

And he spake this parable unto them, saying. 

What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he lose 
one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the 
wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find 
it? 

And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his 
shoulders, rejoicing. 

And when he cometh home, he calleth together his 
friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with 
me ; for I have found my sheep which was lost. 

I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven 
over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety 
and nine just persons, which need no repentance. 

Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she 
lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the 
house, and seek diligently till she find it? 

And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends 
and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; 
for I have found the piece which I had lost. 

Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence 
of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. — 
Luke 15: i-io. 

Thou art truly the God of all the earth, and Thy grace 
has abounded towards all. We thank Thee for the in- 
estimable gift of Thy Son and for His life of sympathy 
[60] 



THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION \5th Week 

iMonaay 

and service in the days of His flesh. Every one was glad 
to be in His company, because He treated them with kind- 
ness and consideration. The needy found in Him a real 
Friend, who understood them and appreciated their diffi- 
culties and encouraged them to do better. What He was 
under the Syrian blue. He still is through His Spirit at 
work in our midst. However far any may have wandered 
from Thee, they are not beyond Thy mercy. Let not a 
single soul feel lost and without hope, since we have such 
a strong Saviour. May those who are weary and troubled 
find peace in Him. May the godless give up the error 
of their ways and turn to Him who will receive them with 
a hospitable welcome. Give us more of the spirit of 
confidence that the lost can be recovered, and may every 
Christian who knows the grace of the Saviour help to 
bring Him within the reach of those who know Him not, 
that they also may have the joy of the Lord. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[61] 



sth weeici THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION 

Tuesday J 



Tuesday: THE DETERMINED SAVIOUR 

For Grod so loved the world, that he gave his only 
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should 
not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent 
not his Son into the world to condemn the world ; but 
that the world through him might be saved. — ^John 
3:16,17. 

And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. 

And, behold, there was a man named Zaccheus, which 
was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich. 

And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not 
for the press, because he was little of stature. 

And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycamore 
tree to see him; for he was to pass that way. 

And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and 
saw him, and said unto him, Zaccheus, make haste, and 
come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. 

And he made haste, and came down, and received him 
joyfully. 

And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying. That 
he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. 

And Zaccheus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, 
Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I 
have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, 
I restore him fourfold. 

And Jesus said imto him. This day is salvation come 
to this house, forasmuch as he also is a son of Abraham. 

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that 
which was lost. — Luke 19: i-io. 

O merciful God, who art the support of the desolate 
and the abject, we bless Thy name for the divine goodness 
which leadeth to penitence and purity of life. Those who 
have discovered that Jesus is interested in them have found 
that life has a new meaning to them and that its worth 
has increased a hundredfold. It gives us much comfort 
[62] 



THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION \sth Week 

iTuesday 

to remember the winsome ways in which our Lord ap- 
pealed to different classes of people and created in them 
a sense of dignity and responsibility. Those who were 
regarded as hopeless were touched and quickened, and 
they roused themselves from their listless and reckless 
courses to accept the offer of God's pardon. Teach us 
that there are wonderful possibilities in every soul, when 
kindled by divine grace. May we never think of any one 
as hopeless, so long as Jesus is able to save completely 
every one who comes to Him. Bless those who work in 
the slums of the city and among the outcast in our own 
land and on the mission field, and may their labors of love 
yield large results, in the name of Him who is the never- 
failing Saviour. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[63] 



5th Week 1 THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION 

Wedneadayl 



Wednesday: A CONVINCING ARGUMENT 

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only 
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should 
not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent 
not his Son into the world to condemn the world ; but 
that the world through him might be saved. — ^John 
3:16,17. 

And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the 
captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon 
them. 

Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached 
through Jesus the resurrection from the dead. 

And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold 
imto the next day: for it was now eventide. 

Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; 
and the number of the men was about five thousand. 

And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, 
and elders, and scribes, 

And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, 
and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of 
the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. 

And when they had set them in the midst, they asked. 
By what power, or by what name, have ye done this? 

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto 
them. Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, 

If we this day be examined of the good deed done to 
the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; 

Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of 
Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, 
whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even 
by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 

This is the stone which was set at nought of you 
builders, which is become the head of the corner. 

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is 
none other name imder heaven given among men, where- 
by we must be saved. 

Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, 
and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, 

[64] 



THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION f?/,^i^^^i^ 

{.Wednesday 

they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that 
they had been with Jesus, 

And beholding the man which was healed standing with 
them, they could say nothing against it. — Acts 4: 1-14. 

Thou who dost bring light out of darkness and order out 
of confusion, we come before Thee, O Lord, at the close 
of another day, to express our thankfulness for Thy 
mercies. In every age and clime Thou hast been sought 
with diligence, and worship has been offered to Thee with 
sincerity. Such service has been acceptable to Thee, more 
especially when it found expression in deeds of sobriety, 
charity, and benignity. We bless Thee for the great 
teachers who expounded the way of truth, according to 
their light and understanding. Their imperfect and in- 
sufficient ways were completed by Jesus Christ, who 
proclaimed the fulness of the divine love and holiness, 
and enforced the same in His illustrious life. May this 
Gospel of a perfect and sufficient redemption be made 
known in all the world, until its benefits are experienced 
everywhere. May the work of the Church increase in 
quality and effectiveness, at home and abroad, in the 
coming years, so that we may all have a larger share 
of the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, 
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[65] 



5th weeki THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION 

Thursday} 



Thursday: GOOD OUT OF EVIL 

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only 
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should 
not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent 
not his Son into the world to condemn the world ; but 
that the world through him might be saved. — ^John 
3:16, 17. 

And the multitude rose up together against them; and 
the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to 
beat them. 

And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they 
cast them into prison, charging the jailer to keep them 
safely : 

Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into 
the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. 

And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises 
unto God: and the prisoners heard them. 

And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that 
the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immedi- 
ately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands 
were loosed. 

And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, 
and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, 
and would have killed himself, supposing that the pris- 
oners had been fled. 

But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself 
no harm: for we are all here. 

Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came 
trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, 

And brought them out, and said. Sirs, what must I do 
to be saved? 

And they said. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and 
thou shalt be saved, and thy house. 

And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and 
to all that were in his house. 

And he took them the same hour of the night, and 
washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, 
straightway. — Acts 16:22-33. 

[66] 



THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION \sth Week 

IThuTsday 

We thank Thee, O God, for the way Thou dost guide 
Thy people. It is not always in pleasant paths that they 
have walked nor in comfortable circumstances that they 
have lived. Their experiences have frequently been beset 
by difficulties and hindrances, but they were able to over- 
come adverse situations because they realized Thy pres- 
ence with them. This is the secret of all real success. 
We therefore pray Thee that our faith may give us 
strength for every duty, that we may be upright and 
patient, true and faithful, contented and yet eager for 
advance according to Christ. Teach us that the Gospel 
is for every walk of life, and that we best honor Thee 
when we show ourselves superior to the distractions and 
dissensions which make so much trouble in the world. 
Enlighten the leaders of the nations, as they plan for the 
coming years, and also enlighten the people that they may 
follow in the open ways which lead to peace and blessed- 
ness, through Jesus Christ, the Captain of our salvation 
and the Leader of the hosts of light. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[67] 



sthw^ki THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION 

Friday J 



Friday: PEACE WITH GOD 

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only 
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should 
not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent 
not his Son into the world to condemn the world ; but 
that the world through him might be saved. — John 
3:16, 17. 

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with 
God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 

By whom also we have access by faith into this g^ace 
wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of 
God. 

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also; 
knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 

And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 

And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God 
is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is 
given unto us. 

For when we were yet without strength, in due time 
Christ died for the ungodly. 

For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet 
peradventure for a good man some would even dare to 
die. 

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while 
we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 

Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we 
shall be saved from wrath through him. 

For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to 
God by the death of his Son; much more, being recon- 
ciled, we shall be saved by his life. 

And not only so, but we also joy in God through our 
Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the 
atonement. — Romans 5: i-ii. 

Gracious art Thou, O God, and patient in all Thy 
dealings with the sons of men. We think of the purpose 
of the Christian life and remind ourselves that its influ- 
[68] 



THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION \5thWeek 

IFriaay 

ence has always been uplifting. Blessings have come 
wherever Christian men and women have received their 
privileges in Christ and have performed their duties. 
We pray that, in these days of turmoil and change, we may 
not lose sight of the fact that the better day can come only 
as we let the love of Christ control us. May Thy people 
see in the pressing needs a challenge which is also an 
opportunity, and may they accept the same with zeal and 
enthusiasm. May Thy peace take such full possession of 
our lives that we may be known by the practices of recon- 
ciliation and kindness in every walk of life. We pray that 
the Spirit of Christ may regulate all the affairs of the 
nations until sin is wholly destroyed, and the glory of 
God rests upon the whole earth. May the divine good will 
become human good will, so that the virtues of Christian 
character may appear in bountiful measure everywhere 
through Jesus Christ, the Lord and Master of us all. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[69] 



slit^] '^^^ GOSPEL OF SALVATION 



Saturday: THE RANSOMED THRONG 

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only 
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should 
not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent 
not his Son into the world to condemn the world ; but 
that the world through him might be saved.— John 
3:16, 17. 

After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which 
no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and 
people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before 
the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their 
hands; 

And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our 
God which sitteth upon the throne, and imto the Lamb. 

And all the angels stood round about the throne, and 
about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the 
throne on their faces, and worshipped God, 

Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and 
thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto 
our God for ever and ever. Amen. 

And one of the elders answered, saying imto me. What 
are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence 
came they? 

And I said imto him. Sir, thou knowest. And he said 
to me. These are they which came out of great tribula- 
tion, and have washed their robes, and made them white 
in the blood of the Lamb. 

Therefore are they before the throne of God, and 
serve him day and night in his temple : and he that sitteth 
on the throne shall dwell among them. 

They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; 
neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. 

For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall 
feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of 
waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their 
eyes. — Revelation 7:9-17. 

We praise Thee, O God, whom to know is life eternal, 
[70] 



THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION {Sth ^f^k 

iSaturaay 

for the rich bestowments of Thy love which have come 
to us in an unceasing flow. As we think of all that we 
have received from Thee, in spite of our unworthiness 
and ingratitude, we wonder that Thou dost continue to 
show mercy. We then remember that Thou art ever 
wont to pardon iniquity and to forgive the transgressions 
of Thy people, for Thou art a God of compassion. These 
generous ways have been justified, for those who were 
neglectful and obstinate were brought to penitence, ob- 
tained pardon, and were renewed in their affections and 
actions. Such triumphs of the divine goodness are an 
encouragement to us all. We beseech Thee, quicken us 
to a lively sense of our responsibilities, enable us to prac- 
tice integrity and piety, and to be faithful all our days. 
Give us the spirit of exultant thanksgiving enjoyed by 
the redeemed of all ages, that it may strengthen, cheer, 
and guide us. Write Thy law within our hearts and may 
we show allegiance to that new covenant which has 
superseded merit by grace and shed abroad the Redeemer's 
love by His sacrifice on the Cross. May the preaching of 
the Gospel tomorrow bring many into the light and enable 
us all to preserve by the bond of peace, the unity of the 
Spirit of our Saviour Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[71] 



6th Week-\ PUBLIC WORSHIP 

Sunday J 



Sunday: PRIVILEGES OF WORSHIP 

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true 
worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in 
truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 
God is a Spirit : and they that worship him must wor- 
ship him in spirit and in truth. — John 4 : 23, 24. 

How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts! 

My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of 
the Lord: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living 
God. 

Yea, the sparrow hath found a house, and the swallow 
a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even 
thine altars, O Lord of hosts, my King, and my God. 

Blessed are they that dwell in thy house: they will 
be still praising thee. 

Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee ; in whose 
heart are the ways of them. 

Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a 
well; the rain also filleth the pools. 

They go from strength to strength, every one of them 
in Zion appeareth before God. 

O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God 
of Jacob. 

Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of 
thine anointed. 

For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I 
had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than 
to dwell in the tents of wickedness. 

For the Lord God is a sim and shield: the Lord will 
give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold 
from them that walk uprightly. 

O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in 
thee. — Psalm 84: 1-12. 

In Thy name, O Lord of life, we have already saluted 

the day of rest and gladness and have availed ourselves 

of its holy opportunities. It comes as a necessary pause 

in the ceaseless round of a busy week and we are sum- 

[72] 



PUBLIC WORSHIP nth Week 

moned to consider our ways, to purify our motives, to 
recuperate our strength, to enrich our fellowship with 
Thee, and to live on the higher levels of thought, pur- 
pose, and deed. We thank Thee for the church services 
and what they have meant to us in the past. We recall 
the myriads of worshipers who have found peace and joy 
in the seasons of worship in the sanctuary. May we 
continue to turn our way regularly and eagerly to the 
house of God, and join in the hour of worship with praise 
and meditation and prayer. May Thy ministering servants 
be richly endued and equipped, that their guidance in 
worship and their counsels in preaching may be attended 
by responsive spirits and bring forth abundant fruit to 
Thy honor. May the multitudes of worshipers who as- 
semble in their sanctuaries always find God and have a 
better understanding of the joys of service, for which 
they have been inspired in Thy house. Thus make us all 
strong to carry our daily burdens, to think kindly of 
others, to make the best of our circumstances, knowing 
that the joy of the Lord is our strength and satisfaction. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[73] 



6th we^k] PUBLIC WORSHIP 

Monday J 



Monday: GLADSOME WORSHIP 

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true 
worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in 
truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 
God is a Spirit : and they that worship him must wor- 
ship him in spirit and in truth. — ^John 4 : 23, 24. 

I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the 
house of the Lord. 

Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem. 

Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together: 

Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord, unto 
the testimony of Israel, to give thanks xmto the name 
of the Lord. 

For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of 
the house of David. 

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper 
that love thee. 

Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy 
palaces. 

For my brethren and companions' sakes, I will now say, 
Peace be within thee. 

Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek 
thy good. — Psalm 122: 1-9, 

We bless Thy name, O Lord, for the abiding impressions 
of the services of the sanctuary and for their inspirational 
influences. We thank Thee that the Church constantly 
reminds us of the nobler qualities of life and encourages 
us to follow after the things that make for truth and 
purity. May the lessons of the Sunday continue their 
appeal throughout this week. When we are tempted and 
discouraged, let us recall Thy benefits to us and think of 
Thy precious promises and so become strong to resist the 
distractions of evil. Give Thy Spirit of holiness and truth 
to all the leaders of the Church, both clergy and laity, that 
[74] 



PUBLIC WORSHIP \({th Week 

they may successfully carry out the program of the King- 
dom of God, to redeem and Christianize the world. We 
believe that this can be done as we undertake to build up 
Christian character, by making men and women steadfast 
in their devotion to the ideals of the New Testament. 
We believe that thus only could society become sanitary 
in moral, commercial, industrial, and social ways. Thus 
only could we hasten the day when nations will accept 
their mutual obligations and carry out their compacts, 
not under the pressure of force but under the impulses of 
fraternal responsibility, and in the name of the Son of 
God and Son of man. Hear and forgive us and give us 
grace always to stand the supreme test of fitness and faith- 
fulness to Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[75] 



6th Week\ PUBLIC WORSHIP 

Tuesday J 



Tuesday: THE GLORY OF WORSHIP 

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true 
worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in 
truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 
God is a Spirit : and they that worship him must wor- 
ship him in spirit and in truth. — John 4 : 23, 24. 

And Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord in 
the presence of all the congregation of Israel, and spread 
forth his hands toward heaven: 

And he said, Lord God of Israel, there is no God like 
thee, in heaven above, or on earth beneath, who keepest 
covenant and mercy with thy servants that walk before 
thee with all their heart. . . ♦ 

And now, O God of Israel, let thy word, I pray thee, 
be verified, which thou spakest unto thy servant David 
my father. 

But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the 
heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how 
much less this house that I have builded? 

Yet have thou respect unto the prayer of thy servant, 
and to his supplication, O Lord my God, to hearken unto 
the cry and to the prayer, which thy servant prayeth be- 
fore thee to day: 

That thine eyes may be open toward this house night 
and day, even toward the place of which thou hast said. 
My name shall be there: that thou mayest hearken unto 
the prayer which thy servant shall make toward this 
place. 

And hearken thou to the supplication of thy servant, 
and of thy people Israel, when they shall pray toward 
this place: and hear thou in heaven thy dwellingplace : 
and when thou hearest, forgive. ... 

And it was so, that when Solomon had made an end 
of praying all this prayer and supplication unto the Lord, 
he arose from before the altar of the Lord, from kneeling 
on his knees with his hands spread up to heaven. 

And he stood, and blessed all the congregation of Israel 
with a loud voice, saying. 

Blessed be the Lord, that hath given rest unto his peo- 

[76] 



PUBLIC WORSHIP ^TueZTy^ 

pie Israel, according to all that he promised: there hath 
not failed one word of all his good promise, which he 
promised by the hand of Moses his servant. 

The Lord our God be with us, as he was with our 
fathers: let him not leave us, nor forsake us: 

That he may incline our hearts unto him, to walk in all 
his ways, and to keep his commandments, and his statutes, 
and his judgments, which he commanded our fathers. — 
I Kings 8:22, 23, 26-30, 54-58. 

We lift up our voice in praise to Thee, O Lord God, 
because of Thy gracious ways to all mankind. In every 
land, Thou hast been sought and found by earnest souls. 
The fulness of Thy light has, however, come through the 
prophets and seers, whose vision was perfected and ful- 
filled by Jesus Christ. May the spirit of true worship in- 
creasingly prevail in the world. Let knowledge grow and 
spread, to drive out the darkness of superstition; but let 
more of reverence in us dwell. So shall we understand 
and appreciate the fitness of things and by seemly be- 
havior commend the honor of Thy name. Remove the 
indifference of Thy people and fill them with interest in 
the cause that purposes to redeem the world from sin in 
all of its terrible and tragic forms. May we enter more 
fully into the fellowship which enriches life. May we be 
guided by Thy promises which never fail and Thy pre- 
cepts which never falter. May the deepening of our 
religious experience be accompanied by the practice of the 
gifts and graces of the Christian life, to the good of our 
fellowmen and the glory of the Redeemer. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[77] 



f^^eeA^] PUBLIC WORSHIP 



Wednesday: WORTHY WORSHIPERS 

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true 
worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in 
truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 
God is a Spirit : and they that worship him must wor- 
ship him in spirit and in truth. — ^John 4 : 23, 24. 

The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the 
world, and they that dwell therein. 

For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established 
it upon the floods. 

Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who 
shall stand in his holy place? 

He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath 
not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. 

He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and 
righteousness from the God of his salvation. 

This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek 
thy face, O Jacob. 

Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lifted up, 
ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come 
in. 

Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and 
mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. 

Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye 
everlasting doors ; and the King of glory shall come in. 

Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is 
the King of glory. — Psalm 24: i-io. 

O Lord our gracious God, Thy presence fills the earth 
and Thy glory is seen in the heavens. We praise Thee 
for admitting us to friendship and fellowship with Thee 
through worship, which calls out the divers expressions 
of thanksgiving, prayer, adoration, intercession, and reso- 
lution. We realize that our communion with Thee depends 
on the spirit and practice of integrity in word and deed. 
We thus show that our faith in Thee is genuine and our 
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PUBLIC WORSHIP Ill/'J^^^J' 

IWeaneaday 

dealings with our fellows are without reproach. May we 
diligently cultivate such a behavior that our character may 
have the quality of goodness and bring forth the fruits 
of the Spirit, which are love, joy, peace, longsuffering, 
kindness, faithfulness. May we learn that our worship 
must pervade our whole life and be seen in heroic action 
and courageous fidelity to the best at any cost. May all 
who enter the place of worship give proof of the benefits 
which they have received, by a consistency that conscien- 
tiously harmonizes high profession with holy living. If 
the Church receives such zealous support, it will be able 
to enter upon a career of greater usefulness and serve the 
new age with the love of God through Jesus Christ, the 
Saviour of all mankind. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



IWJ 



6th Weekl PUBLIC WORSHIP 

Thursday} 



Thursday: ACCEPTABLE WORSHIP 

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true 
worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in 
truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 
God is a Spirit : and they that worship him must wor- 
ship him in spirit and in truth. — John 4 : 23, 24. 

To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices 
unto me? saith the Lord: I am full of the burnt offerings 
of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in 
the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats. 

When ye come to appear before me, who hath required 
this at your hand, to tread my courts? 

Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomina- 
tion unto me; the new moons and sabbaths, the calling 
of assemblies, I cannot away with; it is iniquity, even 
the solemn meeting. 

Your new moons and your appointed feasts my soul 
hateth: they are a trouble unto me; I am weary to bear 
them. 

And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine 
eyes from you; yea, when ye make many prayers, I will 
not hear: your hands are full of blood. 

Wash ye, make you clean; put away the evil of your 
doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; 

Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, 
judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. 

Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: 
though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as 
snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as 
wool. — Isaiah i: 11-18. 

Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow 
myself before the high God? shall I come before him with 
burnt offerings, with calves of a year old? 

Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or 
with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my first- 
born for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the 
sin of my soul? 

He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what 
doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to 

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PUBLIC WORSHIP l^th w^k 

IThuTsday 

love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? — Micah 
6:6-8. 

Teach us, O God, that worship is the recognition and 
acceptance of what is worth while. When we praise Thee 
we show that we have a sense of real values and are de- 
termined to give first things their rightful place. May we 
cultivate the practice of personal prayer, so that when 
we come together our fellowship in Christ may have a 
richer quality and be more largely beneficial. The highest 
worship is not offered in isolation, but in company with 
others who are likeminded and with whom we have the 
feeling of spiritual kinship. May we also remember that 
Thou art the God of love and holiness, of beauty and 
purity, of order and justice. Our worship can then be 
acceptable only as we have these same virtues. Grant to 
all Thy people such an understanding of Thy mind, so 
perfectly made known in Jesus Christ, that we shall use 
the inspirations of public prayer and praise for the further- 
ance of the principles of brotherhood, in order that injus- 
tice, corruption, and crime shall cease, and there be seen 
an increase of righteousness and honor and equity through- 
out the world, in the name of Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



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fm^jT^] public worship 



Friday: PRACTICAL WORSHIP 

But the hour cometh, and now Is, when the true 
worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in 
truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 
God is a Spirit : and they that worship him must wor- 
ship him in spirit and in truth. — John 4 : 23, 24. 

O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, 
all the earth. 

Sing unto the Lord, bless his name; shew forth his 
salvation from day to day. 

Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders 
among all people. 

For the Lord is great, and greatly to be praised: he 
is to be feared above all gods. 

For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the Lord 
made the heavens. 

Honour and majesty are before him: strength and 
beauty are in his sanctuary. 

Give unto the Lord, O ye kindreds of the people, give 
unto the Lord glory and strength. 

Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: 
bring an offering, and come into his courts. 

O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: fear 
before him, all the earth. 

Say among the heathen that the Lord reigneth: the 
world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: 
he shall judge the people righteously. 

Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let 
the sea roar, and the fulness thereof. 

Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then 
shall all the trees of the wood rejoice 

Before the Lord: for he cometh, for he cometh to 
judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteous- 
ness, and the people with his truth. — Psalm 96: 1-13. 

We confess, O God, that Thou art the Guide and Up- 
holder of our life. Thou art truly held in reverence by 
those who have found Thee to be precious in the seasons 
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PUBLIC WORSHIP f6thWeek 

iFriday 

of strain. May the number of such pious ones greatly 
increase, that Thy praise may prevail in all the world. 
May Thy truth, as it has been made known in Jesus Christ, 
exercise a restraining and constraining influence among 
the peoples of the earth. Let all who engage in worship 
spread an atmosphere of spiritual fragrance in every com- 
munity, so that the undertakings of business and pleasure, 
of government and philanthropy, may lessen the tempta- 
tions and handicaps of society and make it easier for right 
dealings and honorable activities. May the Church see 
and seize the enlarging and multiplying opportunities to 
establish the rule of God among men. We pray for Chris- 
tian union, that the several denominations may realize 
their underlying oneness in Christ, and federate their 
forces to serve the present age. We pray that the leaders 
of the Church may be enabled to communicate their vision, 
so that it shall be supported by the laity and the urgent 
task be performed, in the name of the common Saviour. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[83] 



U^tt^d^y] PUBLIC WORSHIP 



Saturday: ENCOURAGEMENT TO WORSHIP 

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true 
worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in 
truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 
God is a Spirit : and they that worship him must wor- 
ship him in spirit and in truth. — John 4 : 23, 24. 

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is 
passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold 
fast our profession. 

For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched 
with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points 
tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, 
that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in 
time of need. — Hebrews 4: 14-16. 

Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the 
holiest by the blood of Jesus, 

By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated 
for us, through the vail, that is to say, his flesh; 

And having a high priest over the house of God ; 

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance 
of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil con- 
science, and our bodies washed with pure water. 

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without 
wavering; for he is faithful that promised; 

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love 
and to good works: 

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as 
the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and 
so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. — 
Hebrews 10: 19-25. 

We celebrate the gracious liberty into which Thou, O 
Lord, hast brought us through Jesus Christ. He has 
opened the way into Thy presence by the sacrifice of the 
Cross. May we who participate in the fulness of joy, by 
communion with Thee, continue to abide in the truth and 
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PUBLIC WORSHIP l^th Week 

ISaturday 

to advance therein, that we may be diligent hearers and 
faithful doers of Thy word. May we who believe in the 
value of assembling in the name of Jesus Christ for 
prayer, praise, and meditation give practical proofs of the 
benefits we receive from such exercises. We do not think 
of worship as a tedious discipline, but as an exhilarating 
privilege. May those who neglect this means of grace 
reaHze what they are missing of the needed encouragement 
and guidance for daily living. We pray for the faithful, 
that their confession of faith and hope may stimulate one 
another to emulate the virtues of the Gospel of love and 
to walk worthily of their high calling. Increase the zeal 
of Thy people, that there may be a deepening of the social 
passion to build up the Kingdom of our God. May the 
exercises held in the churches tomorrow be beneficial. 
Bless our own church — ^the minister, the official leaders, 
the membership, and our community; and may all that is 
done in our church and through it prove profitable, for the 
sake of Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[85] 



7th Week! THE CHRISTIAN HOME 

Sunday J 



Sunday: THE SUPREME BUILDER 

Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that de- 
lighteth greatly in his commandments. 

His seed shall be mighty upon earth : the generation 
of the upright shall be blessed. 

Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his 
righteousness endureth for ever. — Psalm 112: 1-3. 

Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain 
that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watch- 
man waketh but in vain. 

It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to 
eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved 
sleep. 

Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord: and the fruit 
of the womb is his reward. 

As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are 
children of the youth. 

Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: 
they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the 
enemies in the gate. — Psalm 127: 1-5. 

Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that 
walketh in his ways. 

For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy 
shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. 

Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of 
thine house: thy children like olive plants round about 
thy table. 

Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth 
the Lord. 

The Lord shall bless thee out of Zion: and thou shalt 
see the good of Jerusalem all the days of thy life. 

Yea, thou shalt see thy children's children, and peace 
upon Israel. — Psalm 128: 1-6. 

We acknowledge that Thou, O Lord, art the giver of 
all good and perfect gifts. Thy sustaining grace is over 
all Thy works. We gladly confess Thee as our Father, 
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THE CHRISTIAN HOME {7th Week 

iSunday 

whose guidance and governance have brought timely as- 
sistance to us in seasons of need. Vain is the help of man 
unless it is enriched by the blessing of God. Earthly 
prosperity is a delusion and a disappointment when Thou, 
O God, art ignored. Teach us that it is madness to try 
to eliminate Thee from our midst, for Thou art indis- 
pensable to our best welfare. May every member of this 
family, from the youngest to the oldest, realize the bene- 
fits of Thy providential direction and remain faithful to 
Thee under every circumstance. We pray for every family 
in the land, that true piety may abound. We especially 
beseech Thee to impart the comforts of Thy Spirit to 
those who are sad because of the loss of loved ones. 
May they learn that the sacrifices made in the troubled 
days of the War are agencies of God for the peace of 
the world. May this day of rest confer its benedictions 
on us all through Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[87] 



7th Week-x THE CHRISTIAN HOME 

Monday J 



Monday: A FAITHFUL MOTHER 

Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that de- 
lighteth greatly in his commandments. 

His seed shall be mighty upon earth : the generation 
of the upright shall be blessed. 

Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his 
righteousness endureth for ever. — Psalm 112: 1-3. 

The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom 
I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that 
have known the truth; 

For the truth's sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall 
be with us for ever. 

Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the 
Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the 
Father, in truth and love. 

I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking 
in truth, as we have received a commandment from the 
Father. 

And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote 
a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had 
from the beginning, that we love one another. 

And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. 
This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from 
the beginning, ye should walk in it. 

For many deceivers are entered into the world, who 
confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This 
is a deceiver and an antichrist. 

Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which 
we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. 

Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doc- 
trine of Christ, hath not Gfod. He that abideth in the 
doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 

If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, 
receive him not into your house, neither bid him God 
speed: 

For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his 
evil deeds. 

Having many things to write imto you, I would not 

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THE CHRISTIAN HOME \7th Week 

iMonday 

write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, 
and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. 

The children of thy elect sister greet thee. Amen. — 
II John 1-13. 

We thank Thee, O God of life, for Thy promises to all 
who put their trust in Thee. No one has ever been dis- 
appointed in coming to Thee, Indeed, they have always 
received beyond their expectations, and have been con- 
strained truly to sing aloud the praises of our large-hearted 
Redeemer. Not every prayer has been answered, because 
the conditions were not wholly favorable. We think of 
the prayers of mothers for their sons and daughters and 
of the sacrificial service of motherhood. May the Spirit 
of God descend on the mothers of the world, that they 
may be strengthened by the knowledge that God who is 
their portion will always guide them. May their labors 
be fruitful seed in good soil, to yield harvests of plenty for 
the redemption of the race. Grant wisdom to young 
mothers in the nurture of their children. Give patience 
and insight to mothers of growing daughters, that the bond 
of sympathy between the two may grow stronger, and not 
weaker, with the passage of the years. May the noble 
character of motherhood remain a perpetual benediction 
and enrich every nation, in the name of the Son of Mary, 
our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



189] 



7th iVeeAi THE CHRISTIAN HOME 

Tuesday J 



Tuesday: THE FATHER'S PRIVILEGE 

Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that de- 
lighteth greatly in his commandments. 

His seed shall be mighty upon earth : the generation 
of the upright shall be blessed. 

Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his 
righteousness endureth for ever. — Psalm 112: 1-3. 

Now these are the commandments, the statutes, and the 
judgments, which the Lord your God commanded to 
teach you, that ye might do them in the land whither ye 
go to possess it: 

That thou mightest fear the Lord thy God, to keep 
all his statutes and his commandments, which I command 
thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son's son, all the days 
of thy life ; and that thy days may be prolonged. 

Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that 
it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase 
mightily, as the Lord God of thy fathers hath promised 
thee, in the land that floweth with milk and honey. 

Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord: 

And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine 
heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. 

And these words, which I command thee this day, shall 
be in thine heart: 

And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, 
and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, 
and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest 
down, and when thou risest up. 

And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, 
and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. 

And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, 
and on thy gates. — Deuteronomy 6: 1-9. 

Our trust is in Thee, O Lord, and we know from ex- 
perience that our faith is well founded when it is so 
placed. Continue to be merciful to us and bless us. Let 
the light of Thy countenance shine in our home and may 
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THE CHRISTIAN HOME l^Jh Week 

ITuesaay 

every one of us, present and absent, rely on Thy strong 
arm and be kept in the true way of grateful and joyful 
obedience. May Thy blessing be with all fathers, that 
they may realize their position of leadership in their homes 
and discharge their responsibilities, as the guide and com- 
panion of their sons and daughters. Let them intelligently 
reckon with God and seek the wisdom from above to make 
their homes the centers of Christian influence in the 
community. May the ties of comradeship between fathers 
and their sons react on one another not only for their 
mutual benefit, but also for the welfare of society and of 
the nation. We realize that the home must be given a 
more important place in the new age, and we pray that 
the Spirit of wisdom and truth may descend on the fathers 
of the world, in the name of the divine Fatherhood. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[91] 



wSdWay] '^^^ CHRISTIAN HOME 



Wednesday: THE FILIAL SPIRIT 

Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that de- 
lighteth greatly in his commandments. 

His seed shall be mighty upon earth : the generation 
of the upright shall be blessed. 

Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his 
righteousness endureth for ever. — Psalm 112: 1-3. 

Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and at- 
tend to know understanding. 

For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law. 

For I was my father's son, tender and only beloved 
in the sight of my mother. 

He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart 
retain my words: keep my commandments, and live. 

Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither 
decline from the words of my mouth. 

Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, 
and she shall keep thee. 

Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: 
and with all thy getting get understanding. 

Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring 
thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her. 

She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a 
crown of glory shall she deliver to thee. 

Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings ; and the years 
of thy life shall be many. 

I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led 
thee in right paths. 

When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; 
and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble. 

Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep 
her; for she is thy life. — Proverbs 4: 1-13. 

Thou art our Father and in Thee is our confidence and 
reliance. How glad we are that we do not have to think 
of Thee as a harsh tyrant, whose commands are the be- 
hests of cruelty. We think of Thee as the Redeemer-God, 
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THE CHRISTIAN HOME \jv!idn^dLy 

whose heart of love has provided salvation in Jesus Christ. 
This is the wisdom that has given honor and dignity to 
the sons of men. We are the children of God and there- 
fore heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ. But we 
must first share His sufferings in order to share His glory. 
Give us the grace of endurance that we may be loyal to 
the family of God, like the valiant souls who have served 
in Thy name in every country and whose number has not 
yet been exhausted. We bless Thee for those who in these 
recent years have given up their lives or have suffered for 
the cause of liberty and humanity. May their names be 
imperishable and may their works enrich succeeding gen- 
erations. May the ideals of filial devotion be eagerly fol- 
lowed by every son and daughter, that they may be a com- 
fort to their parents and a credit to their nation. Bless 
every home and school and church, that these institutions 
may render a larger service for the Kingdom of God and 
the honor of Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



193] 



7th WeeA] THE CHRISTIAN HOME 

Thursday! 



Thursday: HOLY MEMORIES 

Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that de- 
lighteth greatly in his commandments. 

His seed shall be mighty upon earth : the generation 
of the upright shall be blessed. 

Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his 
righteousness endureth for ever. — Psalm 112: 1-3. 

I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with 
pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remem- 
brance of thee in my prayers night and day; 

Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, 
that I may be filled with joy; 

When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that 
is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, 
and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee 
also. 

Wherefore I put thee in remembrance, that thou stir 
up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of 
my hands. 

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of 
power, and of love, and of a soimd mind. 

Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of 
our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker 
of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power 
of God; 

Who hath saved us, and called us with a holy calling, 
not according to our works, but according to his own 
purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus 
before the world began; 

But is now made manifest by the appearing of our 
Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath 
brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 
— II Timothy i : 3-10. 

But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned 
and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast 
learned them; 

And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scrip- 
tures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation 
through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 

[94] 



THE CHRISTIAN HOME \7th Week 

iThursday 

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is 
profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for 
instruction in righteousness: 

That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly fur- 
nished unto all good works. — II Timothy 3: 14-17. 

Thanks be to Thee, O God, for the healthy influences 
exercised by the religious home. Those who have 
breathed its atmosphere of devotion, culture, and refine- 
ment have gone forth to do honest service among their 
fellows. Thou hast been the unfailing source and strength 
of every noble impulse, pure purpose, and unselfish deed. 
The associations and memories of a home where Thou 
art honored have brought comfort and courage to all of 
its members. May the practice of piety fortify youth 
against evil temptations and strengthen them in self-mas- 
tery and integrity, that their character may have the 
sanity and sweetness of Jesus, who lived an exemplary 
life in His home in Nazareth. May Thy Spirit guide 
parents to instruct their children, that they may grow 
in wisdom and stature, enjoying the favor of God and 
man. May the church be supported with intelligent rever- 
ence. May religion be the inspiration of every member 
of the home, finding expression in worship at the family 
altar and in the general and particular behavior in all 
the affairs of daily activity both in the home and outside 
it. So may we take a full share of our obligations and 
blessings, through Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[95] 



TthWeeki THE CHRISTIAN HOME 

Friday J 



Friday: A DUTIFUL LIFE 

Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that de- 
lighteth greatly in his commandments. 

His seed shall be mighty upon earth : the generation 
of the upright shall be blessed. 

Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his 
righteousness endureth for ever. — Psalm 112: 1-3. 

A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son 
is the heaviness of his mother. 

Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteous- 
ness delivereth from death. 

The Lord will not suffer the soul of the righteous to 
famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked. 

He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but 
the hand of the diligent maketh rich. 

He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that 
sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame. 

Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence 
covereth the mouth of the wicked. 

The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of 
the wicked shall rot. 

The wise in heart will receive commandments: but 
a prating fool shall fall. 

He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that 
perverteth his ways shall be known. 

He that winketh with the eye causeth sorrow: but a 
prating fool shall fall. 

The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but 
violence covereth the mouth of the wicked. 

Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins. 
— Proverbs ic: i-i2o 

Thou eternal God of grace and purity, we think of Thee 

at the close of the day in a spirit of thankfulness. Thy 

mercies have never failed us. Thy guidance has truly led 

us. Thy presence has succored us. Indeed, everything we 

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THE CHRISTIAN HOME \7th Week 

{Friday 

have received has come from a wise and bountiful Provi- 
dence, and we are deeply appreciative of our indebtedness 
to Thee. We pray for those homes where the conditions 
are unfavorable and the children suffer from handicap, 
by reason of neglect, lack of right nurture, and exposure 
to temptations from coarse companions and demoralizing 
surroundings. May the institutions of corruption which 
make gain out of the miseries of the ignorant and the poor 
be cast out of society by the self-respecting and God- 
honoring citizenship. May legislation be rightly directed 
and applied. May we all realize that we are in part re- 
sponsible for the evils and abuses of society. May our 
civic conscience be enlightened to do our duty fearlessly 
and faithfully. May the school and the church unite forces 
with the home for the forcible expulsion of iniquity and 
to make possible a situation where it will be harder to 
do wrong and easier to do right, in the name of Jesus 
Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[97] 



7th Week^ THE CHRISTIAN HOME 

Saturday} 



Saturday: A DEFINITE DECISION 

Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that de- 
lighteth greatly in his commandments. 

His seed shall be mighty upon earth : the generation 
of the upright shall be blessed. 

Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his 
righteousness endureth for ever. — Psalm 112: 1-3. 

Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity 
and in truth; and put away the gods which your fathers 
served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and 
serve ye the Lord. 

And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose 
you this day whom ye will serve ; whether the gods which 
your fathers served that were on the other side of the 
flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye 
dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the 
Lord. 

And the people answered and said, God forbid that 
we should forsake the Lord, to serve other gods; 

For the Lord our God, he it is that brought us up 
and our fathers out of the land of Egypt, from the house 
of bondage, and which did those great signs in our sight, 
and preserved us in all the way wherein we went, and 
among all the people through whom we passed: 

And the Lord drave out from before us all the people, 
even the Amorites which dwelt in the land: therefore 
will we also serve the Lord; for he is our God. 

And Joshua said irnto the people. Ye cannot serve the 
Lord: for he is a holy God; he is a jealous God; he will 
not forgive your transgressions nor yoiu* sins. 

If ye forsake the Lord, and serve strange gods, then 
he will turn and do you hurt, and consume you, after that 
he hath done you good. 

And the people said imto Joshua, Nay; but we will 
serve the Lord. 

And Joshua said unto the people. Ye are witnesses 
against yourselves that ye have chosen you the Lord, 
to serve him. And they said. We are witnesses. 

[98] 



THE CHRISTIAN HOME \7th Week 

ISaturday 

Now therefore put away, said he, the strange gods 
which are among you, and incline your heart unto the 
Lord God of Israel. 

And the people said unto Joshua, The Lord our God 
will we serve, and his voice will we obey. 

So Joshua made a covenant with the people that day, 
and set them a statute and an ordinance in Shechem. — 
Joshua 24: 14-25. 

We thank Thee, O Lord our God, for the goodly ex- 
amples of faithful men and women who had convictions 
of duty and the courage to utter them in words and deeds. 
Their influence abides in renewed lives from one genera- 
tion to another. May the succession of worthy souls con- 
tinue, and let the home do much in contributing to the 
well-being and welfare of all peoples. Let every Christian 
home be like a city set on a hill, that its light may radiate 
in the community and render the service of helpfulness 
in true neighborliness. We pray for the homes in the 
city, the suburb, and the country. May Thy presence be 
welcome in every one of them and let Thy peace abide 
therein. May both parents and children find joy, as they 
live according to the truth of the Gospel of Christ. We 
pray for the services to be held tomorrow in the large 
church, in the small chapel, and in mission rooms. Bless 
the preaching, whether it is under a roof or in the open 
air, and may the Name and Spirit of Jesus impart the 
fragrance of pure character to all needy and troubled 
souls, for the Redeemer's sake. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[991 



lifnS^ri ^^^^^ 



Sunday: THE HEART OF HOPE 

The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of 
my cup : thou maintainest my lot. 

The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places ; yea, 
I have a goodly heritage. . . . 

I have set the Lord always before me: because he 
is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. — Psalm 
i6:s,6,8. 

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the 
evidence of things not seen. 

For by it the elders obtained a good report. 

Through faith we understand that the worlds were 
framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen 
were not made of things which do appear. 

By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacri- 
fice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was 
righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being 
dead yet speaketh. 

By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see 
death; and was not foimd, because God had translated 
him: for before his translation he had this testimony, 
that he pleased God. 

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for 
he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that 
he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. 

By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen 
as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving 
of his house; by the which he condemned the world, 
and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. 

By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into 
a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, 
obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. 

By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a 
strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and 
Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: 

For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose 
builder and maker is God. — Hebrews ii: i-io. 

[100] 



FAITH [sunZT^ 

We magnify Thy name, O Lord, for the encouraging 
testimonies of those who put their faith in Thee and 
who were faithful to Thy word of truth. They found that 
faith is the very heart of hope and love. It separates 
fancy from reality, and establishes those who use it in 
the practice of the virtues and graces which adorn Chris- 
tian character. Men and women in every condition of 
life knew Thee to be the God of sympathy and they were 
impelled to confide in Thee the more heartily because 
Thou didst share with them in their straits and struggles. 
Thus they won a place on the roll of heroism and their 
challenge to us is to do likewise, and to look past the 
fears of sense to Jesus, the strong and mighty Saviour. 
Make us worthy of this company and enable us to press 
forward to the higher attainments, in the assurance that 
it is better farther on. May all Thy people have this 
vision of freedom and fellowship. May their observance 
of the day of rest fit them the better to bear their burdens 
and to carry out their duties, in the strength of the com- 
panionship of Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[101] 



^Sn^l^l FAITH 



Monday: A GLOWING CONFESSION 

The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of 
my cup : thou maintainest my lot. 

The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places ; yea, 
I have a goodly heritage. . . . 

I have set the Lord always before me: because he 
is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. — Psalm 
i6:s,6,8. 

When he was come down from the mountain, great mul- 
titudes followed him. 

And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, 
saying. Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. 

And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, 
I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was 
cleansed. 

And Jesus saith imto him, See thou tell no man; but 
go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift 
that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. 

And when Jesus was entered into Capernaimi, there 
came unto him a centurion, beseeching him. 

And saying. Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of 
the palsy, grievously tormented. 

And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. 

The centurion answered and said. Lord, I am not 
worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but 
speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. 

For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under 
me: and I say to this man. Go, and he goeth; and to 
another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant. Do 
this, and he doeth it. 

When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them 
that followed. Verily I say unto you, I have not found 
so great faith, no, not in Israel. 

And I say unto you, That many shall come from the 
east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and 
Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven: 

But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out 

[102] 



FAITH \Sth Week 

iMonday 

into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnash- 
ing of teeth. 

And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and 
as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his 
servant was healed in the selfsame hour. — Matthew 8: 
1-13. 

O Lord our God, may we be so fully convinced of Thy 
wisdom and power, as to trust Thee in the dark as well 
as in the light. Thou art the giver of good and perfect 
gifts, and all we have has come from thee, out of the 
unsearchable bounty of Thy love. Thy mercy and good- 
ness have abundantly favored us, and we are daily mind- 
ful of Thy blessings. Let those who enjoy health think 
tenderly of the sick and afflicted. May those who are 
well provided with the good things of life consider sym- 
pathetically those who are denied even the necessities of 
life. Let all in need find in Thee such grace and forgive- 
ness that they may become strong with the courage of 
endurance. Keep us all from the pestilence of sin that 
bringeth distress, and, whether by day or night, may we 
trust and not be afraid. So may we walk in Thy light 
and find gladness in the God of our salvation, who is 
faithful that promised, and who will never leave us nor 
forsake us at any time. May such faith stimulate us to 
honor Thee all the days of our life, through Jesus, our 
gracious and generous Saviour. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[103] 



8th Week\ FAITH 

Tuesday J 



Tuesday: QUIETNESS AND CONFIDENCE 

The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of 
my cup : thou maintainest my lot. 

The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places ; yea, 
I have a goodly heritage. . . . 

I have set the Lord always before me: because he 
is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. — Psalm 
i6:s,6,8. 

Then said Jesus unto them again . . . 

I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his 
life for the sheep. 

But he that is a hireling, and not the shepherd, whose 
own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth 
the sheep, and fleeth; and the wolf catcheth them, and 
scattereth the sheep. 

The hireling fleeth, because he is a hireling, and careth 
not for the sheep. 

I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am 
known of mine. 

As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father : 
and I lay down my life for the sheep. 

And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: 
them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; 
and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. — John lo: 
7, 11-16. 

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures : he leadeth 
me beside the still waters. 

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of 
righteousness for his name's sake. 

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of 
death, I will fear no evil : for thou art with me ; thy rod 
and thy staff they comfort me. 

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of 
mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup 
rimneth over. 

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the 
days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the 
Lord for ever. — Psalm 23: 1-6. 

[104] 



FAITH \Sth Week 

ITueaday 

O merciful God, praise be to Thee for the wonders of 
Thy grace and the greatness of Thy works. We behold 
Thy handiwork everywhere and we hear of Thy favors 
from all quarters. Both rich and poor speak of the timeli- 
ness and preciousness of Thy benefits. How fitting it is 
that the song of thanksgiving should ascend like the 
fragrant incense of the evening sacrifice ! Keep us more 
steadfast in faith, more fervent in hope, more hearty in 
love. May we show forth the praises of our God, who 
hast done so mightily and mercifully for those who call 
upon His name — ^yea, even those who are unmindful of 
Thee have received more than their measure of benefac- 
tion. Purify our hearts that we may appreciate the tender- 
ness of Thy care, the patience of Thy dealings, the kind- 
ness of Thy disposition, that we may become free from 
the anguish of anxiety, the depression of defeat, and the 
travail of trial. May our minds be so stayed on Thee that 
we shall always trust in Thee and be kept in perfect peace, 
from day to day, through the merits of the blessed Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[105] 



SihWe^ 1 FAITH 

Wedneadayl 



Wednesday: JOY AND PEACE 

The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of 
my cup : thou maintainest my lot. 

The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places ; yea, 
I have a goodly heritage. . . . 

I have set the Lord always before me: because he 
is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. — Psalm 
i6:s,6,8. 

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. 

Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord 
is at hand. 

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer 
and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be 
made known imto God. 

And the peace of God, which passeth all understand- 
ing, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ 
Jesus. 

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatso- 
ever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, what- 
soever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, 
whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any 
virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. 

Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, 
and heard, and seen in me, do : and the God of peace shall 
be with you. 

But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last 
yom- care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were 
also careful, but ye lacked opportimity. 

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, 
in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 

I know both how to be abased, and I know how to 
aboimd: every where and in all things I am instructed 
both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to 
suffer need. 

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth 
me. . . . 

But my God shall supply all your need according to 
his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 

[106] 



FAITH [StHW^^^^^ 

Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and 
ever. Amen. — Philippians 4:4-13, 19, 20. 

O merciful and gracious God, who looketh upon the sons 
of men with clear eyes and considerate spirit, we bless 
Thee because Thou dost treat everyone with open frank- 
ness. Thou dost not favor some and disregard others. 
All are equally precious in Thy sight: but Thou art 
specially pleased with those who regard Thee with faith 
and fealty. May we think of Thee, not with the fear of 
cowardice but with the fear of reverence and godly joy. 
Let us remember that salvation does not depend on the 
extent of our faith but on the fulness of Thy grace. We 
also know that those who are more receptive obtain a 
larger measure of the divine consolations. Forgive what- 
ever in us is unworthy of Thee and may we always follow 
in the way of godliness, strengthened by our gracious Re- 
deemer. We believe that the truth will prevail, but much 
of its success depends on the fidelity of those who profess 
Thy name. Quicken within us the spirit of fraternity and 
fair play. May the terrible sacrifices of the War not be 
in vain, but rather yield the peaceable fruits of righteous- 
ness, for the spread of love and liberty, in the name of our 
Elder Brother and Saviour. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[107] 



'^LYsZ^ PAITH 



Thursday: DOING THE IMPOSSIBLE 

The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of 
my cup : thou maintainest my lot. 

The Hnes are fallen unto me in pleasant places ; yea, 
I have a goodly heritage. . . . 

I have set the Lord always before me: because he 
is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. — Psalm 
16:5,6,8. 

And one of the multitude answered and said, Master, 
I have brought unto thee my son, which hath a dumb 
spirit ; 

And wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him; and 
he foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth 
away: and I spake to thy disciples that they shoiild cast 
him out; and they could not. 

He answereth him, and saith, O faithless generation, 
how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer 
you? bring him unto me. 

And they brought him imto him : and when he saw him, 
straightway the spirit tare him ; and he fell on the groimd, 
and wallowed foaming. 

And he asked his father, How long is it ago since this 
came unto him? And he said. Of a child. 

And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into 
the waters, to destroy him : but if thou canst do any thing, 
have compassion on us, and help us. 

Jesus said unto him. If thou canst believe, all things 
are possible to him that believeth. 

And straightway the father of the child cried out, and 
said with tears, Lord, I believe ; help thou mine unbelief. 

When Jesus saw that the people came running together, 
he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him. Thou diunb 
and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and 
enter no more into him. 

And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out 
of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, 
He is dead. 
[108] 



FAITH ]Btl^J^, 

But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; 
and he arose. — Mark g: 17-27. 

Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why 
could not we cast him out? 

And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: 
for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of 
mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain. Remove 
hence to yonder place; and it shall remove: and nothing 
shall be impossible unto you. — Matthew 17: 19, 20. 

O God our Father, it encourages us to know that faith 
is the quality of trust and confidence found in every person. 
May we learn to use what we have, for thus only could we 
increase our supply. Let us not be afraid of the moun- 
tains of difficulty, because Thou dost provide for our 
needs, that we be not overcome and defeated. Since we 
have the benefit of Thy presence in the Holy Spirit, may 
we patiently and sincerely carry our burdens, and learn 
that the discipline is a means of grace for the culture of 
character. May it be our delight to share our mercies 
with others. May we help by thoughtful kindness and 
not hurt by thoughtless selfishness. Give us the clean 
heart, that we may have the clear vision and follow the 
conquering trail to the City of our God. May the Spirit 
of Christ inflame our hearts, that we may not be overcome 
of evil, but overcome evil with good. Guide us all in this 
home and may the God of peace be with us in our going 
out and in our coming in, from this time forth and for 
evermore. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



U09] 



Pr%Z^'] FAITH 



Friday: INHERITANCE AND POSSESSION 

The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of 
my cup : thou maintainest my lot. 

The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places ; yea, 
I have a goodly heritage. ... 

I have set the Lord always before me: because he 
is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. — Psalm 
16:5,6,8. 

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus 
Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings 
in heavenly places in Christ. . . . 

In whom we have redemption through his blood, the 
forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; 

Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom 
and prudence. . . . 

In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being 
predestinated according to the purpose of him who 
worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: 

That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first 
trusted in Christ. 

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word 
of truth, the gospel of your salvation : in whom also, after 
that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit 
of promise. 

Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the re- 
demption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of 
his glory. 

Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the 
Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints. 

Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of 
you in my prayers; 

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of 
glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and 
revelation in the knowledge of him: 

The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; 
that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and 
what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the 
saints, 

[110] 



FAITH [«^^~* 

And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to 
US-ward who believe, according to the working of his 
mighty power, 

Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from 
the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the 
heavenly places. 

Far above all principality, and power, and might, and 
dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this 
world, but also in that which is to come. — Ephesians 
1:3, 7, 8, 11-21. 

We cannot find language sufficient to express our thanks 
to Thee, O Lord God, for continuing Thy mercies to us 
with such boundless grace. We can never fully under- 
stand all that the coming of Jesus Christ has meant to us 
and to the world. Thine arm has never been shortened, 
nor has Thine ear been heavy, nor hast Thou withholden 
from us the help so fitting in the times of our need. Thou 
didst fly to our relief before we hardly turned to Thee. 
Indeed, Thy grace has gone before us and has accompanied 
us, so that we have come short of no good thing. In all 
the years we have been guided and sustained by Thee, and 
Thy promises remain steadfast in Christ Jesus. May we 
continue to learn the divine wisdom and grace, and to 
experience the manifold goodness and might of the Re- 
deemer. May we be diligent in the pursuit and possession 
of truth, so that we shall abide under its wholesome in- 
fluences and advance towards closer union with Christ 
and greater control by His Spirit. What we seek for 
ourselves may others also obtain and so find Thee to be 
gracious and precious, in Jesus Christ, the Beloved of 
God and man. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[1111 



8th Wee,kl FAITH 

Saturday } 



Saturday: A VALID TEST 

The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of 
my cup : thou maintainest my lot. 

The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places ; yea, 
I have a goodly heritage. ... 

I have set the Lord always before me: because he 
is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. — Psalm 
i6:s,6,8. 

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, 
and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and 
many there be which go in thereat: 

Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, 
which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. 

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's 
clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 

Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather 
grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 

Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; 
but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 

A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can 
a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 

Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn 
down, and cast into the fire. 

Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. 

Not every one that saith unto me. Lord, Lord, shall 
enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the 
will of my Father which is in heaven. 

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we 
not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast 
out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful 
works? 

And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: 
depart from me, ye that work iniquity. 

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, 
and doeth them, I will liken him imto a wise man, which 
built his house upon a rock: 

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the 

[112] 



FAITH l^^je.. 

winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: 
for it was founded upon a rock. 

And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and 
doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, 
which built his house upon the sand: 

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the 
winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and 
great was the fall of it. — Matthew 7: 13-27. 

O God of purity and power, Thou reignest supreme and 
art exalted in the midst of Thy people. Thy laws are 
steadfast. Thy purposes are unfailing, Thy promises are 
sure. Glory be to Thee, who commandeth the light to 
shine and to spread its healing rays o'er all the earth, to 
drive out darkness, to dispel gloom, to discontinue sin. 
We rejoice in Jesus Christ, the Light of the world. May 
we always walk in the light which comes from Him and 
bring forth the fruits of right living. Enlarge our under- 
standing, that we may show loving obedience. Increase 
the faith of all Thy people and grant them to realize Thy 
love and pity and tenderness. May the wisdom of God 
enlighten them, the truth of God liberate them, the re- 
demption of God empower them, and the peace of God 
fortify them. May this Gospel be worthily proclaimed in 
all the world and prove its power by turning many from 
darkness into light. Make us all more fervent in spirit, 
that we may serve the Lord with filial freedom, and help 
each other in fraternal fellowship, through Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[113] 



9thWeeki THE FAITHFUL 

Sunday J 



Sunday: THE CALL OF GOD 

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel 
of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor 
sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 

But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his 
law doth he meditate day and night. 

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of 
water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his 
leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth 
shall prosper. — Psalm i : 1-3. 

Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of 
thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy. father's 
house, unto a land that I will shew thee : 

And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless 
thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a 
blessing: 

And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him 
that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the 
earth be blessed. 

So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; 
and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five 
years old when he departed out of Haran. 

And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's 
son, and all their substance that they had gathered, and 
the souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went 
forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land 
of Canaan they came. — Genesis 12: 1-5. 

And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the 
Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the 
Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. 

And I will make my covenant between me and thee, 
and will multiply thee exceedingly. 

And Abram fell on his face : and God talked with him, 
saying. 

As for me, behold, my covenant is with thee, and thou 
shalt be a father of many nations. 

Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but 

[114] 



THE FAITHFUL Hth Week 

iSunday 

thy name shall be Abraham ; for a father of many nations 
have I made thee. 

And I will make thee exceeding fruitful, and I will 
make nations of thee, and kings shall come out of thee. 

And I will establish my covenant between me and thee 
and thy seed after thee in their generations, for an ever- 
lasting covenant, to be a God unto thee and to thy seed 
after thee. 

And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, 
the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of 
Canaan, for an everlasting possession; and I will be their 
God. — Genesis 17: 1-8. 

O Thou God of the faithful of every age and nation, 
we bless Thy name for Thy faithfulness unto them. No 
good word in any of Thy promises has ever failed of ful- 
filment. What Thou hast promised that Thou hast per- 
formed, wherever and whenever Thy people have observed 
the conditions of loyalty. It is truly encouraging to think 
of Thy patience, Thy forbearance. Thy guidance, so 
liberally given to every generation. What Thou hast been 
in former days that Thou still art in these latter days. 
Thou dost not change, but continuest the same, and the 
riches of Thy grace are limitless. Grant us the spirit of 
devotion and may our confession of faith be consistent 
with our conduct of faithfulness. Thus only can we prove 
the merit of Thy boundless love, and benefit from the 
might of Thy wondrous holiness, and witness to the 
wealth of Thy redeeming mercy in Jesus Christ. 

"God of our fathers ! Be the God 
Of their succeeding race." 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[115] 



Pth Week] THE FAITHFUL 

Monday J 



Monday: MARTYRS OF FAITH 

Blessed Is the man that walketh not in the counsel 
of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor 
sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 

But his delight is in the law of the Lord ; and in his 
law doth he meditate day and night. 

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of 
water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his 
leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth 
shall prosper. — Psalm i : 1-3. 

By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three 
months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper 
child; and they were not afraid of the king's command- 
ment. 

By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused 
to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; 

Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of 
God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; 

Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than 
the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the 
recompense of the reward. 

By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of 
the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is in- 
visible. . . . 

By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were 
compassed about seven days. 

By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that 
believed not, when she had received the spies with peace. 

And what shall I more say? for the time would fail 
me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and 
of Jephthah; of David also, and Samuel, and of the 
prophets : 

Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought right- 
eousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, 

Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the 
sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed yaliant 
in fight, turned to fiight the armies of the aliens. • . • 

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THE FAITHFUL \^*^^^^ 

{.Monday 

These all died in faith, not having received the prom- 
ises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded 
of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they 
were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 

For they that say such things declare plainly that they 
seek a coimtry. 

And truly, if they had been mindful of that coimtry 
from whence they came out, they might have had oppor- 
tunity to have returned. 

But now they desire a better country, that is, a 
heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called 
their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. — He- 
brews II : 23-27; 30-34; 13-16. 

Blessed be thou, O Lord, for the men and women of 
vision, who pointed the way to the heights heroic, and who 
traveled towards these sunlit summits. They were martyrs 
in that they witnessed a good confession in genuine 
allegiance to the triumphant truth of the living God. We 
bless Thee for godly homes where such valiant souls were 
nurtured and guided by parents who were farsighted and 
devoted. May the home continue to be such a help in our 
own day. May those who have sacrificed everything for 
country and humanity receive a double blessing and be 
comforted by the God of grace. Strengthen those in 
authority, who occupy positions of trust and responsibility. 
May their leadership establish peace among the nations; 
and let it be clearly understood that true peace is possible 
only where Thou art held in the highest honor. May 
the Spirit divine enlighten and empower us to reckon with 
Thee in every transaction, that we may be fruitful and 
abound, through the Captain of our salvation. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



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9th Week^ THE FAITHFUL 

Tuesday J 



Tuesday: THE SUCCESSION OF FAITH 

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel 
of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor 
sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 

But his deHght is in the law of the Lord; and in his 
law doth he meditate day and night. 

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of 
water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his 
leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth 
shall prosper. — Psalm i : 1-3. 

Now after the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, 
it came to pass, that the Lord spake unto Joshua the son 
of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, 

Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over 
this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which 
I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. 

Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, 
that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. 

From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the 
great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the 
Hittites, and imto the great sea toward the going down 
of the sim, shall be your coast. 

There shall not any man be able to stand before thee 
all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will 
be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. 

Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people 
shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I 
sware unto their fathers to give them. 

Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou 
mayest observe to do according to all the law, which 
Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to 
the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper 
whithersoever thou goest. 

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth ; 
but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou 
mayest observe to do according to all that is written 

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THE FAITHFUL f9th Week 

ITueaaay 

therein : for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and 
then thou shalt have good success. 

Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good 
courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for 
the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. 
— Joshua 1 : 1-9. 

O God of courage and blessing, we exalt Thy name be- 
cause Thou hast provided so richly for our needs. When 
one leader lays down his burden, Thou dost raise up an- 
other to take his place, and the successor is often able 
to produce larger results because of the faithful pioneer 
work of his predecessor. Let no one take credit to him- 
self as though his own arm brought him the success. 
May we always recognize that Thou art the upholder of 
every victor, and that no good has ever been accom- 
plished without Thee. May we not lose heart when some 
pass on to their reward or remove to other places. As 
Thou didst guide them, so wilt Thou help us. Since the 
faith is powerless without the faithful and they are weak 
without Thy sustaining grace, may we summon all our 
ransomed powers to work energetically and enthusias- 
tically for the success of Thy truth. May we rejoice in 
the universal Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of 
the whole race. Hasten the day when this gospel will 
be accepted by all the world, to the glory of Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



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9th-Week 1 THE FAITHFUL 

Wednesdayi 



Wednesday: CHALLENGE AND EXHORTA- 
TION 

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel 
of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor 
sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 

But his delight is in the law of the Lord ; and in his 
law doth he meditate day and night. 

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of 
water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his 
leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth 
shall prosper. — Psalm i : 1-3. 

And Samuel said unto all Israel . . . 

Behold, here I am: witness against me before the Lord, 
and before his anointed: whose ox have I taken? or whose 
ass have I taken? or whom have I defrauded? whbm have 
I oppressed? or of whose hand have I received any bribe 
to blind mine eyes therewith? and I will restore it you. 

And they said, Thou hast not defrauded us, nor op- 
pressed us, neither hast thou taken aught of any man's 
hand. 

And he said unto them. The Lord is witness against 
you, and his anointed is witness this day, that ye have 
not found aught in my hand. And they answered. He is 
witness. 

And Samuel said unto the people. It is the Lord that 
advanced Moses and Aaron, and that brought your fathers 
up out of the land of Egypt. 

Now therefore stand still, that I may reason with you 
before the Lord of all the righteous acts of the Lord, 
which he did to you and to your fathers. 

When Jacob was come into Egypt, and your fathers 
cried imto the Lord, then the Lord sent Moses and Aaron, 
which brought forth your fathers out of Egypt, and made 
them dwell in this place. 

And when they f orgat the Lord their God, he sold them 
into the hand of Sisera, captain of the host of Razor, 

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THE FAITHFUL f?^^^^^!? 

IWednesaay 

and into the hand of the Philistines, and into the hand 
of the king of Moab, and they fought against them. 

And they cried unto the Lord, and said, We Have 
sinned, because we have forsaken the Lord, and have 
served Baalim and Ashtaroth: but now deliver us out of 
the hand of our enemies, and we will serve thee. 

And the Lord sent Jerubbaal, and Bedan, and Jephthah, 
and Samuel, and delivered you out of the hand of your 
enemies on every side, and ye dwelt safe. . . . 

If ye will fear the Lord, and serve him, and obey his 
voice, and not rebel against the commandment of the 
Lord; then shall both ye and also the king that reigneth 
over you continue following the Lord your God: 

But if ye will not obey the voice of the Lord, but 
rebel against the commandment of the Lord; then shall 
the hand of the Lord be against you, as it was against 
your fathers. — I Samuel 12: i, 3-11, 14, 15. 

O Lord, we bless Thy name in the highest for the wis- 
dom and power with which Thou hast endowed men and 
women, to live worthily of Thy truth and holiness, and 
become a blessing to others. They accepted Thy promises ; 
they followed Thy counsels; they sought Thy honor; they 
stimulated faith in Thee by precept and example; and 
so they had joy and gladness. We remember before 
Thee those who are bearing the cross in sincerity and who 
are showing endurance as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. 
May the qualities of fearlessness and perseverance in- 
crease and abound among us in these days of special de- 
mands and difficult tasks. May the membership of the 
Church respond with consecration to Christ. May Chris- 
tians bear their testimony to justice and truth in every 
walk of life and under all circumstances. 

"O may Thy soldiers, faithful, true, and bold. 
Fight as the saints who nobly fought of old, 
And win with them the victor's crown of gold." 

The Lord's Prayer. 

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Thu^Zy] ^^^ FAITHFUL 



Thursday: THE GOAL OF GLORY 

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel 
of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor 
sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 

But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his 
law doth he meditate day and night. 

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of 
water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his 
leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth 
shall prosper. — Psalm i : 1-3. 

And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, 
the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with 
them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall 
be with them, and be their God. 

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; 
and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor 
crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the 
former things are passed away. . . • 

And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and 
high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy 
Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, 

Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto 
a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as 
crystal ; 

And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, 
and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, 
which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children 
of Israel: 

On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on 
the south three gates ; and on the west three gates. 

And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and 
in them the names of the twelve apostles of the 
Lamb. ... 

And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Al- 
mighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. 

And the city had no need of the sim, neither of the 

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THE FAITHFUL \9th Week 

IThursaay 

moon, to shine in it: for the glory o£ God did lighten 
it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. 

And the nations of them which are saved shall walk 
in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring 
their glory and honour into it. 

And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for 
there shall be no night there. 

And they shall bring the glory and honour of the 
nations into it. 

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that 
defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or 
maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's 
book of life. — Revelation 21:3, 4, 10-14, 22-27. 

Almighty God, it strengthens our faith in Thee to be 
reminded of the lives and deeds of Thy servants in all 
ages. The littleness of their knowledge was increased 
by their faith in the greatness of Thy love, and what they 
accomplished was due to the indwelling of Thy Spirit. 
May these things be a summons to us to continue faithful 
as we keep the blessed goal before us. May the univer- 
sality of God's grace and the unity of life in Him be in- 
creasingly experienced in these days of transition. Guide 
the leaders who are called upon to meet the very trying 
situations. May they be supported by the rank and file 
of Christian people, without whose fidelity there cannot 
be real progress. May every Christian home become a 
center of inspiration for the Kingdom of God. May Thy 
comfort and blessing abound towards all who call upon 
Thee in sincerity and truth, and hasten the day of world- 
wide fraternity and peace, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[123] 



pJid^^] '^^^ FAITHFUL 



Friday: CONFIDENCE AND ENDURANCE 

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel 
of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor 
sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 

But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his 
law doth he meditate day and night. 

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of 
water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his 
leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth 
shall prosper. — Psalm i : 1-3. 

I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord 
Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead 
at his appearing and his kingdom; 

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of. season; 
reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doc- 
trine. 

For the time will come when they will not endure 
soimd doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap 
to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 

And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, 
and shall be turned imto fables. 

But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the 
work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. 

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my 
departure is at hand. 

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, 
I have kept the faith: 

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of right- 
eousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give 
me at that day : and not to me only, but unto all them also 
that love his appearing. . . . 

At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men 
forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their 
charge. 

Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strength- 
ened me ; that by me the preaching might be fully known, 

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THE FAITHFUL I9th Week 

XFriday 

and that all the Gentiles might hear : and I was delivered 
out of the mouth of the lion. 

And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, 
and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom : to whom 
be glory for ever and ever. Amen. — II Timothy 4: i- 
8, 16-18. 

O God, may the examples of fidelity kindle in us the 
determination to show a similar spirit at all times. Thou 
art our defense and our deliverance, and we praise Thee 
for all the help that we have received from day to day. 
May we always be alive to the joy of each day, with 
its toil and difficulty, its pleasure and success, its defeat 
and sorrow. May we always remember that every cloud 
has its silver lining, and that every condition has its 
compensations. May we then be diligent in understand- 
ing Thy will and devoted in doing it. When so many 
changes are taking place in the world and there is so 
much misery and distress, let us see that these have been 
caused by selfishness. Truly, the only sufficient cure is 
in Jesus Christ. May His Spirit control us and may we 
adhere to His standards. May we offer to Thee the 
sacrifice of work well done. Guide us in the choice of 
only those things that are pleasing to Thee. Be gracious 
to those who are in trouble and let Thy peace abide with 
us, through Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer, 



[125] 



yhWeep^ THE FAITHFUL 



Saturday: THE TRUE RECOGNITION 

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel 
of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor 
sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 

But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his 
law doth he meditate day and night. 

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of 
water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his 
leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth 
shall prosper. — Psalm i : 1-3. 

When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all 
the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the 
throne of his glory: 

And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he 
shall separate them one from another, as a Shepherd 
divideth his sheep from the goats: 

And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the 
goats on the left. 

Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand. 
Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom pre- 
pared for you from the foundation of the world: 

For I was a hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was 
thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye 
took me in: 

Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited 
me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 

Then shall the righteous answer him, saying. Lord, 
when saw we thee a hungered, and fed thee? or thirsty, 
and gave thee drink? 

When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or 
naked, and clothed thee? 

Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto 
thee? 

And the King shall answer and say unto them. Verily 
I say unto you. Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one 
of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto 
me. — Matthew 25: 31-40. 

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THE FAITHFUL fc^ay 

Almighty Father, we give Thee hearty praise and 
thanksgiving for the heroes and heroines of history. We 
are not thinking only of those whose names are paneled 
on the pages of fame, but also of the still larger number 
who were counted faithful by Thee and who glorified Thee 
in the quiet and obscure places of the world. They were 
not recognized outside the immediate circle of their com- 
monplace life. But the light divine shone in them and 
through them, and they brought blessing to those who 
came in contact with them. They were satisfied with the 
thought that they had done their best, according to their 
knowledge of Thy will; and they furthermore rejoiced 
because Thou wast so gracious to them. They were calm 
in danger, patient in trial, persistent in loyalty, and true 
to the last. They were thus given the right to enter into 
the eternal Kingdom of Christ. May we also be diligent 
to make our calling and election sure, by looking to Jesus, 
the Author and Perfecter of faith, to whom be glory for 
ever. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[127] 



lOthWeekl FEAR 

Sunday J 



Sunday: THE FRIENDS OF JESUS 

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most 
High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 

I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my 
fortress : my God ; in him will I trust. — Psalm 91:1,2. 

This is my commandment, That ye love one another, 
as I have loved you. 

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay 
down his life for his friends. 

Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. 

Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant 
knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you 
friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I 
have made known unto you. 

Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and 
ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and 
that your fruit should remain; that whatsoever ye shall 
ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. 

These things I command you, that ye love one an- 
other. . . . 

I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot 
bear them now. 

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will 
guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of him- 
self; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: 
and he will shew you things to come. 

He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and 
shall shew it unto you. 

All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore 
said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto 
you. . . . 

These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but 
the time cometh, when I shall no more speak imto you 
in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father. 

At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not 
unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: 

For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have 
loved me, and have believed that I came out from 
God. . . . 

[128] 



FEAR [sundYy^^ 

Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye 
shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave 
me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father 
is with me. 

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye 
might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: 
but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. — John 
15: 12-17; 16: 12-15, 25-27, 32, 33. 

Thou God of light and truth, may we continue in Thy 
grace and favor and always know that Thou art our 
defense and our deliverance. When danger threatens, 
let us keep calm, for Thou art our strength and protection. 
May we recall Thy deeds of power in former days and 
remember that what Thou hast done in the past is a 
pledge of Thy unceasing solicitude and love to those who 
confide in Thee. Increase our faith and let us assure 
ourselves that since God is for us and we are for Him, 
nothing can hurt us nor indeed can we suffer any serious 
loss. May we appreciate the discipline of sacrifice. Re- 
move from our minds any thoughts of self-pity and stimu- 
late us to enter through the open gates into the opportunity 
for joyous service. May the quiet of this holy day im- 
part rest and refreshment, enlightenment and enthusiasm, 
knowledge and reverence to many people, so that they 
may be prepared to take their full share of responsibility 
in the home, the church, and society, for the sake of 
Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[129] 



lOthWeekl FEAR 

Monday J 



Monday: ANXIETY AND FIDELITY 

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most 
High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 

I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my 
fortress : my God ; in him will I trust. — Psalm 91 : i, 2. 

The light of the body is the eye : if therefore thine eye 
be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. 

But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of 
darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be dark- 
ness, how great is that darkness! 

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate 
the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the 
one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and 
mammon. 

Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your 
life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for 
your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more 
than meat, and the body than raiment? 

Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither 
do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly 
Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? 

Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit imto 
his stature? 

And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the 
lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither 
do they spin: 

And yet I say unto you. That even Solomon in all his 
glory was not arrayed like one of these. 

Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, 
which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, 
shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? 

Therefore take no thought, saying. What shall we eat? 
or. What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be 
clothed? 

(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for 
your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all 
these things. 

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his right- 
eousness; and all these things shall be added imto you. 

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FEAR ri2"'J*'"* 

IMonaay 

Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the 
morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Suffi- 
cient unto the day is the evil thereof. — Matthew 6: 22-34. 

O God, Thou art truly the Helper of those who walk 
uprightly, and Thy guidance doth hearten those who ear- 
nestly seek Thy will. We thank Thee for Jesus Christ, 
the Friend of all people, and for His teaching, so full of 
encouragement to those who are anxious and cast down. 
Grant to us a deeper consciousness of His companionship, 
that we may be able to resist the temptations which beset 
us and overcome every form of evil within us and around 
us. May our thoughts, purposes, and actions be in accord 
with Thy counsels and commands, and may we rejoice 
in the fellowship of the light. We gather at the close of 
the day to remind ourselves of our many benefits and 
obligations, to confess our sins and shortcomings, to 
praise Thy goodness and mercy towards us, and to pray 
for greater discernment. Perfect that which concerneth 
us. Strengthen us in all goodness. Magnify Thyself 
through us. Make us worthy followers of Jesus Christ, 
to whom with Thee, O Father, and the thrice blessed 
Spirit, we render the hearty homage of our lives. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



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10th Weea FEAR 

Tueaday J 



Tuesday: LOVE AND CONFIDENCE 

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most 
High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 

I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my 
fortress : my God ; in him will I trust. — Psalm 91 : i, 2. 

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; 
and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth 
God. 

He that loveth not, knoweth not God; for God is love. 

In this was manifested the love of God toward us, 
because that God sent his only begotten Son into the 
world, that we might live through him. 

Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he 
loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our 
sins. 

Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one 
another. 

No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one 
another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected 
in us. 

Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, 
because he hath given us of his Spirit. 

And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent 
the Son to be the Saviour of the world. 

Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, 
God dwelleth in him, and he in God. 

And we have known and believed the love that God 
hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love 
dwelleth in God, and God in him. 

Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have 
boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are 
we in this world. 

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out 
fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not 
made perfect in love. 

We love him, because he first loved us. — I John 4: 7-19. 

O gracious God, our heavenly Father, we rejoice that 
Thy name has been given to us and that we are Thy 
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FEAR nothweek 

ITuesday 

children, members of the divine family. May this truth 
find practical demonstration in our lives. Keep us from 
stain of sin. Let us not harbor evil thoughts and bitter 
feelings and may we not wander into forbidden paths. 
Give us the rest which means control and calmness of 
spirit. We need have no fear since Thou art by our side, 
with Thy counsels which give us direction and Thy prom- 
ises which offer timely help. Give special grace to the 
faint-hearted and to those in distress. Be near the sick: 
may their spirits be tempered by Thy comforts and may 
they know of a surety that God will never fail them, 
whatever betide. Let all people bless the Lord, for His 
praises are in all the earth, and the marvels of His grace 
are abundantly spread abroad in Jesus Christ, whose 
sympathy and skill as the Good Physician and the Strong 
Saviour have been experienced from shore to shore. 
Bless this home and guide us all, present and absent, in 
Thy love. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[133] 



I 



10th Week \ FEAR 

Wednesday} 



Wednesday: THE SYMPATHY OF JESUS 

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most 
High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 

I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my 
fortress : my God; in him will I trust. — Psalm 91 : i, 2. 

And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get 
into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, 
while he sent the multitudes away. 

And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up 
into a mountain apart to pray : and when the evening was 
come, he was there alone. 

But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed 
with waves : for the wind was contrary. 

And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto 
them, walking on the sea. 

And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, 
they were troubled, saying. It is a spirit; and they cried 
out for fear. 

But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying. Be of 
good cheer ; it is I ; be not afraid. 

And Peter answered him and said. Lord, if it be thou, 
bid me come unto thee on the water. 

And he said. Come. And when Peter was come down 
out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. 

But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; 
and beginning to sink, he cried, saying. Lord, save me. 

And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and 
caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, 
wherefore didst thou doubt? 

And when they were come into the ship, the wind 
ceased. 

Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped 
him, saying. Of a truth thou art the Son of God. 

And when they were gone over, they came into the land 
of Gennesaret. 

And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, 
they sent out into all that coimtry round about, and 
brought imto him all that were diseased ; 

And besought him that they might only touch the hem 

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IWednesaay 

of his garment : and as many as touched were made 
perfectly whole. — Matthew 14: 22-36. 

Most merciful Father, Thou who dost control all 
thoughts and direct all actions, we pray Thee to bring our 
lives into subjection to Thy holy will. May we always 
consider and follow those things that are true and pure 
and excellent. So shall we become free from anxieties 
which weaken us and have the joy of the Lord, which 
is our strength. Teach us the secret of contentment and 
enable us to overcome all debasing desires. Keep us in 
health of body, in happiness of mind, in holiness of spirit. 
Accept our grateful praise this evening. Remember those 
who are cast down and who cannot see the sun for the 
clouds of sorrow and distress. Lead them out into the 
sunshine of Thy mercy, favor, and love, and may they 
find — as many have done in every age and clime — that 
sympathy, healing, and balm for every w^ound are in Jesus 
Christ, our Saviour and Friend. May we rest in Thy 
keeping this night, and awake on the morrow to go forth 
to the duties of the new day, with glad and buoyant 
spirits, because we are guarded by the peace of God. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



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10th Week! FEAR 

Thursday J 



Thursday: THE NEW LIFE 

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most 
High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 

I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my 
fortress : my God ; in him will I trust. — Psalm 91:1,2. 

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things 
which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand 
of God. 

Set your affection on things above, not on things on 
the earth. 

For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 

When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall 
ye also appear with him in glory. 

Mortify therefore your members which are upon the 
earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil 
concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: 

For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on 
the children of disobedience: 

In the which ye also walked sometime, when ye lived 
in them. 

But now ye also put off all these ; anger, wrath, malice, 
blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 

Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the 
old man with his deeds ; 

And have put on the new man, which is renewed in 
knowledge after the image of him that created him: 

Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circimicision 
nor uncircumcision. Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: 
but Christ is all, and in all. 

Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and be- 
loved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, 
meekness, longsuffering; 

Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if 
any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ for- 
gave you, so also do ye. 

And above all these things put on charity, which is the 
bond of perfectness. 

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the 
which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. 

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iThuraday 

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wis- 
dom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms 
and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your 
hearts to the Lord. 

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the 
name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the 
Father by him. — Colossians 3: 1-17. 

O God of grace, we thank Thee at the close of this day 
for all the blessings of goodness we enjoy. Give us the 
spirit of sympathy that we may think of others with 
kindness, rejoicing with them in their good fortune and 
sorrowing with them in their distress. Thus can we help 
to build up the brotherhood of charity, whose doors are 
open to all individuals and families who let themselves 
be guided by the will of Christ and influenced by the 
peace of Christ. May all bitterness, suspicion, and 
enmity be overthrown by the increasing growth of the 
spirit of forgiveness and forbearance. May we always 
remember that we are Christ's and let all our actions show 
forth His glory. What we thus seek for ourselves we also 
pray may be granted to the chosen of God throughout the 
world, until all mankind shall come into the fellowship of 
freedom in Jesus Christ and the world become the habita- 
tion of righteousness, peace, and joy, to the glory of God. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



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Friday J 



Friday: BLESSED ASSURANCE 

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most 
High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 

I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my 
fortress : my God ; in him will I trust. — Psalm 91 : 1,2. 

But thou, Israel, art my servant, Jacob whom I have 
chosen, the seed of Abraham my friend. 

Thou whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, 
and called thee from the chief men thereof, and said unto 
thee. Thou art my servant; I have chosen thee, and not 
cast thee away. 

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; 
for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will 
help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand 
of my righteousness. 

Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall 
be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; 
and they that strive with thee shall perish. 

Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not find them, even 
them that contended with thee: they that war against 
thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought. 

For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, say- 
ing unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. 

Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I 
will help thee, saith the Lord, and thy Redeemer, the 
Holy One of Israel. — Isaiah 41: 8-14. 

But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, 
and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have 
redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art 
mine. 

When thou passest through the waters, I will be with 
thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow 
thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not 
be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. 

For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, 
thy Saviour. — Isaiah 43: 1-3. 

O Lord God of hosts, may our faith in Thee be strong, 
so that we shall never waver in the face of duty nor be 
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FEAR l^rid^^^ 

affrighted by difficulty. Let the purity of Christ make us 
pure, His wisdom enlighten us, His power strengthen us. 
So shall we be equipped and fortified, sustained and en- 
couraged, to go on to know the Lord in the fulness and 
sufficiency of His grace, and to follow Him in the spirit of 
sacrificial devotion. Give us to see the glory of the Chris- 
tian life that we may walk worthy of our calling. Teach 
us to set the Cause above renown, its honor above personal 
gain ; and may we prize our membership in the brotherhood 
which binds the brave of all the earth. May we know 
that since our trust is in Thee our faith is well set, and 
nothing can really hurt us. May all who are fearful and 
sorrowful diligently cultivate the life that is hid with 
Christ in God. So shall we and they find the peace that 
passeth all understanding, the joy without alloy, and the 
love that endureth in and through Jesus Christ, the Strong 
Son of God. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



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10th Weekl FEAR 

Saturday J 



Saturday: THE FOUNTAIN OF LIFE 

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most 
High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 

I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my 
fortress : my God ; in him will I trust. — Psalm 91 : i, 2. 

Thy mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; and thy faith- 
fulness reacheth unto the clouds. 

Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; thy 
judgments are a great deep: O Lord, thou preservest 
man and beast. 

How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore 
the children of men put their trust under the shadow 
of thy wings. 

They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of 
thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river 
of thy pleasures. 

For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall 
we see light. 

O continue thy lovingkindness unto them that know 
thee; and thy righteousness to the upright in heart. . . . 

Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell 
in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. 

Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee 
the desires of thine heart. 

Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and 
he shall bring it to pass. 

And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the 
light, and thy judgment as the noonday. 

Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret not 
thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, be- 
cause of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. 

Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself 
in any wise to do evil. 

For evil doers shall be cut off : but those that wait upon 
the Lord, they shall inherit the earth. — Psalm 36:5-10; 
37:3-9. 

Almighty God, we come to the close of another week and 
gather at the family altar with joy and gladness. Thou 
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FEAR lipth Week 

ISaturaay 

hast not withholden any good thing from those who walk 
uprightly. Oftentimes we craved for certain things and 
were disappointed when they were beyond our reach. 
Give us wisdom and patience, that we may learn to value 
the things that are really good in life and to find satisfac- 
tion in them. Keep us in the path of dutifulness and let 
us understand that security and happiness come only as 
we continue to look to Jesus Christ, the Author and Per- 
fecter of our faith. May we always be sure that we are 
seeking His will and that we are His followers in deed 
and in truth. Let us commend Thy grace in gracious 
ways, share Thy benefits in generous fashion, and magnify 
Thy holy Name in gladsome spirit. Bless the services of 
the sanctuary tomorrow and may the praises of the people 
inspire them to praiseworthy practices, to the glory of 
Thy bounty in Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



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sl^j^^*] DIVINE GUIDANCE 



Sunday: THE ALL-SUFFICIENT CHRIST 

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is 
common to man: but God is faithful, who will not 
suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but 
will with the temptation also make a way to escape, 
that ye may be able to bear it. — I Corinthians lo: 13. 

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, 
believe also in me. 

In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were 
not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place 
for you. 

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come 
again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, 
there ye may be also. 

And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. 

Thomas saith unto him. Lord, we know not whither 
thou goest; and how can we know the way? 

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the 
life : no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. 

If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father 
also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen 
him. 

Philip saith unto him. Lord, shew us the Father, and 
it suiBceth us. 

Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with 
you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that 
hath seen me hath seen the Father ; and how sayest thou 
then. Shew us the Father? 

Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the 
Father in me? the words that I speak imto you I speak 
not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he 
doeth the works. 

Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in 
me: or else believe me for the very works* sake. 

Verily, verily, I say unto you. He that believeth on 
me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater 
works than these shall he do; because I go unto my 
Father. 

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DIVINE GUIDANCE nithWeek 

ISunday 

And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I 
do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 

If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. — ; 
John 14: 1-14. 

Blessed be the Name of the Lord, who hath not left 
us to our own devices but hath opened the path of life 
to all believers. Thou hast promised us grace with 
guidance. Thy word is not only : "This is the way, walk 
ye in it" ; but also : ''My presence shall go with thee, and 
I will give thee rest.'' Here then is the secret of true 
blessedness and it is ours for the asking, on condition 
that we eagerly and earnestly do Thy will. May we not 
be attracted towards what is merely easy and pleasant, but 
only to what is right and true. Enlighten and instruct 
our conscience, so that its guidance may harmonize with 
Thy will. We bless Thee that confusion can be avoided, 
only as we have Christ and His Spirit abiding in us. 
May the experiences of this holy day clarify our under- 
standing, purify our spirit, vivify our will, and lead us 
in the way everlasting, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[1431 



iithWeeki DIVINE GUIDANCE 

Monday J 



Monday: LIGHT IN DARKNESS 

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is 
common to man: but God is faithful, who will not 
suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but 
will with the temptation also make a way to escape, 
that ye may be able to bear it. — I Corinthians lo : 13. 

Nevertheless the dimness shall not be such as was in 
her vexation, when at the first he lightly afflicted the land 
of Zebulun, and the land of Naphtali, and afterward did 
more grievously afflict her by the way of the sea, beyond 
Jordan, in Galilee of the nations. 

The people that walked in darkness have seen a great 
light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, 
upon them hath the light shined. 

Thou hast multiplied the nation, and not increased the 
joy: they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, 
and as men rejoice when they divide the spoil. 

For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the 
staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, as in the 
day of Midian. 

For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, 
and garments rolled in blood ; but this shall be with burn- 
ing and fuel of fire. 

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: 
and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his 
name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty 
God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 

Of the increase of his government and peace there shall 
be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his king- 
dom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and 
with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal 
of the Lord of hosts will perform this. — Isaiah 9: 1-7. 

O God, Thou art wise and great, patient and true. 

No good word of Thine has ever failed. There have been 

times when we could not understand Thy ways, and we 

were tempted to question instead of to submit. But in 

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DIVINE GUIDANCE lii^^F^^^ 

IMonday 

the sequel of events, we have found out that we were 
mistaken, and that if we had had our way, it would have 
been grievous unto us. As Thou didst lead Thy people 
of old by a roundabout course for their own good, and 
finally brought them to their desired haven, so hast Thou 
done with us. Forgive our fretfulness and our ways of 
discord. Increase our faith and strengthen our trust in 
Thee. May we remember the years of the right hand 
of the Most High and consider Thy doings, and take cour- 
age for the days to come, in the confident assurance that 
this God is our God for ever, and He will be our guide 
even to the end. Accept our thanks as a family, and lead 
us in the pathway of those to whom Thou hast been 
gracious, in the name of Jesus Christ. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[145] 



Tat7a7^] DIVINE GUIDANCE 



Tuesday: GRATITUDE AND OBEDIENCE 

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is 
common to man: but God is faithful, who will not 
suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but 
will with the temptation also make a way to escape, 
that ye may be able to bear it. — I Corinthians lo: 13. 

All the commandments which I command thee this day 
shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, 
and go in and possess the land which the Lord sware 
unto your fathers. 

And thou shalt remember all the way which the Lord 
thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, 
to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was 
in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his com- 
mandments, or no. 

And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and 
fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did 
thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that 
man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that 
proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord doth man live. 

Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy 
foot swell, these forty years. 

Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man 
chasteneth his son, so the Lord thy God chasteneth thee. 

Therefore thou shalt keep the commandments of the 
Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, and to fear him. 

For the Lord thy God bringeth thee into a good land, 
a land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths that 
spring out of valleys and hills; 

A land of wheat, and barley, and wines, and fig trees, 
and pomegranates; a land of oil olive, and honey; 

A land wherein thou shalt eat bread without scarceness, 
thou shalt not lack any thing in it ; a land whose stones 
are iron, and out of whose hills thou mayest dig brass. 

When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt bless 
the Lord thy God for the good land which he hath given 
thee. — Deuteronomy 8: i-io. 

O Lord God of mercy and glace, give us the seeing 
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DIVINE GUIDANCE [V*^ J^* 

ITueaday 

eye that we may understand aright our experiences 
through the years. Give us the listening ear that we may 
obey Thy precepts. Grant to us the responsive spirit 
that we may walk in Thy truth. Let us look with wonder 
at that which is behind us and be grateful for Thy remem- 
brances. Teach us to see that all things work together 
for good to them that love God. May we rely on the 
all-varied wisdom of God, and, encouraged by what we 
have received in the past, may we look with wonder at 
that which is before us. Give us the endurance of faith 
and the patience of hope to follow the straight way, in 
spite of discomfort and difficulty. Let us go forward in 
the confidence that Thou wilt supply our needs, and that, 
whatever our condition, we shall be able to erect Ebenezer, 
our Stone of Help. May this be the experience of all who 
call upon Thee. May they abide and abound in Thy love, 
through Jesus Christ, assured that all things work together 
for good to them that love God. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[147] 



il^Ji^^^] DIVINE GUIDANCE 

WedneaaayA 



Wednesday: THE WAY OF HOLINESS 

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is 
common to man: but God is faithful, who will not 
suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but 
will with the temptation also make a way to escape, 
that ye may be able to bear it. — I Corinthians lo: 13. 

The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad 
for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as 
the rose. 

It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy 
and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto 
it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon; they shall see 
the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God. 

Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble 
knees. 

Say to them that are of a fearful heart. Be strong, fear 
not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even 
God with a recompense ; he will come and save you. 

Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the 
ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. 

Then shall the lame man leap as a hart, and the tongue 
of the dumb sing : for in the wilderness shall waters break 
out, and streams in the desert. 

And the parched groimd shall become a pool, and the 
thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of 
dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and 
rushes. 

And a highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be 
called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass 
over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, 
though fools, shall not err therein. 

No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall 
go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the re- 
deemed shall walk there : 

And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come 
to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: 
they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sigh- 
ing shall flee away. — Isaiah 35: i-io. 

And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; 

[148] 



DIVINE GUIDANCE [wedi^day 

we have waited for him, and he will sa\e us: this is the 
Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice 
in his salvation. — Isaiah 25:9. 

Praise be to God, the merciful, the generous, the all- 
suffering. We worship Thee at the close of this day and 
we magnify Thy name because with wisdom Thou hast 
directed our affairs. When we were blind to our oppor- 
tunities and indifferent to our privileges, Thou wast won- 
derfully patient, and it was Thy forbearance that brought 
us into the light, where now we see clearly. Forgive our 
impenitence and pardon our offenses. Give us sensitive 
hearts, that we may receive the impressions of Thy Spirit 
and faithfully follow the divine leadings, offered to each 
one of us according to our several necessities. May our 
defeats bring deliverance, and may we learn that the 
mirage of disappointment can become a pool of refreshing 
fruitfulness. The way opened for the wanderer and the 
exile is plain, secure, and reliable; and they who travel 
it will assuredly arrive at their journey's end in peace. 
May we appreciate this privilege and accept it, and avail- 
ing ourselves of its advantages, become acceptable to 
Thee through Jesus Christ, who is the Way, the Truth, 
and the Life. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[149] 



lJthWeek^ DIVINE GUIDANCE 

Thursday J 



Thursday: THE PILGRIM SPIRIT 

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is 
common to man: but God is faithful, who will not 
suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but 
will with the temptation also make a way to escape, 
that ye may be able to bear it. — I Corinthians lo: 13. 

And he went through the cities and villages, teaching, 
and journeying toward Jerusalem. 

Then said one unto him. Lord, are there few that be 
saved? And he said unto them. 

Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say 
unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. 

When once the master of the house is risen up, and 
hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, 
and to knock at the door, saying. Lord, Lord, open unto 
us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you 
not whence ye are: 

Then shall ye begin to say. We have eaten and drunk 
in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. 

But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence 
ye are ; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity. . . . 

And, behold, there are last which shall be first; and 
there are first which shall be last. 

The same day there came certain of the Pharisees, 
saying unto him, Get thee out, and depart hence; for 
Herod will kill thee. 

And he said unto them. Go ye, and tell that fox. Behold, 
I cast out devils, and I do cures to day and to morrow, 
and the third day I shall be perfected. 

Nevertheless I must walk to day, and to morrow, and 
the day following: for it cannot be that a prophet perish 
out of Jerusalem. 

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, 
and stonest them that are sent imto thee; how often 
would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen 
doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would 
not! 

Behold, your house is left imto you desolate: and 
verily I say unto you. Ye shall not see me, until the 

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DIVINE GUIDANCE njth Week 

time come when ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh 
in the name of the Lord. — Luke 13 : 22-27, 30-35- 

O heavenly Father, we hardly need to be reminded that 
Thou art the source of all good and perfect gifts. And 
yet how apt we are to enjoy the gift without thinking of 
the Giver. Forgive us our negligent disposition and save 
us from spiritual slothfulness. May we watch and pray, 
that we enter not into temptation. Let fervor of spirit 
unite with promptness to duty. Give us presence of mind 
and ability to exercise self-control under all circum- 
stances. Whatsoever we do, let it be done heartily as to 
the Lord and not unto men, not as time-servers, for the 
sake of appearance, but as the servants of Christ, who 
loved us and gave Himself for us, that He might redeem 
us from sin and make us His genuine followers, zealous 
of good works. Enrich the allegiance of Thy people in 
every land. Make them fearless in rebuking iniquity, and 
unite them in the bonds of loyalty to Christ, to labor un- 
ceasingly for the salvation of individuals and the Chris- 
tianization of society and the world. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[151] 



lithWeBk^ DIVINE GUIDANCE 

Friday J 



Friday: MAGNIFICAT AND BENEDICTUS 

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is 
common to man: but God is faithful, who will not 
suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but 
will with the temptation also make a way to escape, 
that ye may be able to bear it. — I Corinthians lo: 13. 

And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, 

And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. 

For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: 
for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call 
me blessed. 

For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; 
and holy is his name. 

And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation 
to generation. 

He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scat- 
tered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 

He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and 
exalted them of low degree. 

He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the 
rich he hath sent empty away. 

He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of 
his mercy; 

As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his 
seed for ever. . . . 

And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy 
Ghost, and prophesied, saying. 

Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited 
and redeemed his people, 

And hath raised up a horn of salvation for us in the 
house of his servant David; 

As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which 
have been since the world began: 

That we should be saved from our enemies, and from 
the hand of all that hate us ; 

To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and 
to remember his holy covenant; 

The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, 

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DIVINE GUIDANCE UJttt Week 

iFnday 

That he would grant unto us, that we, being delivered 
out of the hand of our enemies, might serve him without 
fear, 

In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days 
of our life. — Luke i : 46-55, 67-75. 

We magnify Thee, O Lord, because Thy purpose has 
been one of redemption throughout the ages. To this end 
Thou didst lead Thy ancient people, without forsaking 
them, even when they were stiff-necked and disobedient. 
In seasons of sore distress, due to their reckless ways, 
Thou wast merciful and gracious. Thou didst raise up 
chosen leaders whom Thou anointed with Thy Spirit, to 
bring deliverance from the enemy, to teach Thy people 
the truth, and to guide them out of darkness into light. 
We bless Thy name for the prophets and saints of every 
clime, who were not only earnest seekers after God but 
enthusiastic preachers, whose stirring words and devout 
lives were a benediction to all. May the succession of 
these faithful ones be continued, and endue us with liberty 
that we may maintain the principles of righteousness and 
peace. Send out Thy light and Thy truth, that they may 
incite us to practices worthy of our high and holy calling, 
in the name and for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[153] 



SaTuJd!^^] DIVINE GUIDANCE 



Saturday: TESTIMONIES AND TESTIMONY 

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is 
common to man: but God is faithful, who will not 
suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but 
will with the temptation also make a way to escape, 
that ye may be able to bear it. — I Corinthians lo: 13. 

Blessed are the imdefiled in the way, who walk in the 
law of the Lord. 

Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that 
seek him with the whole heart. 

They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. 

Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts dili- 
gently. 

that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! 
Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect 

unto all thy commandments. 

1 will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I 
shall have learned thy righteous judgments. 

I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly. 

Wherewithal shall a yoimg man cleanse his way? by 
taking heed thereto according to thy word. 

With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me 
not wander from thy commandments. 

Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin 
against thee. 

Blessed art thou, O Lord: teach me thy statutes. 

With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy 
mouth. 

I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much 
as in all riches. 

I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto 
thy ways. 

I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget 
thy word. — Psalm 119: 1-16. 

O Lord God, may our hearts be fixed, trusting in Thee. 
So shall we be saved from confusion and misunderstand- 
ing, and find peace all the days of our life. When we feel 
[154] 



DIVINE GUIDANCE [{/'/' ^ee* 

ISaturaay 

desolate and distressed, it is not because Thou hast with- 
holden Thy presence from us, but because we have been 
too preoccupied and wrapped up in ourselves. And yet, 
Thou art our Sympathizer and Saviour. Forgive us our 
feverish and blundering ways, and recall us to Thyself. 
Thou hast in mercy redeemed us and never hast Thou 
failed to keep faith with those who seek Thy will. When 
in doubt, may we think of Jesus Christ, and let His Spirit 
work in us, to guide us into truth, to guard us from evil, 
to govern our lives in harmony with the mind of God. 
We thank Thee for the Bible, the inspired record of Thy 
dealings with the race and the illuminating revelation of 
Thyself through seers, saints, and apostles, and, above all, 
through Jesus Christ. May we become so familiar with 
its varied message, as to be built up in character and 
strengthened in behavior, worthy of our Redeemer God. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



1165] 



Mtft WeeM THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

Sunday J 



Sunday: THE PERFECT SPIRIT 

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love 
one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love 
one another. By this shall all men know that ye are 
my disciples, if ye have love one to another. — John 

13:34,35. 

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, 
and have not charity, I am become as soimding brass, 
or a tinkling cymbal. 

And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand 
all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all 
faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not 
charity, I am nothing. 

And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and 
though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, 
it profiteth me nothing. 

Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; 
charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 

Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, 
is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 

Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 

Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all 
things, endureth all things. 

Charity never f aileth : but whether there be prophecies, 
they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall 
cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 

But when that which is perfect is come, then that 
which is in part shall be done away. 

When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood 
as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a 
man, I put away childish things. 

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face 
to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even 
as also I am known. 

And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but 
the greatest of these is charity. — I Corinthians 13: 1-13. 

We rejoice, O Lord, in the revelation of Thyself in 
[156] 



THE CHRISTIAN LIFE [sundYy''^ 

Jesus Christ. We are especially grateful that Thou didst 
not make Thyself known through some moral code or a 
system of teaching, but through a life like unto our own. 
And yet how supremely superior is the life of Christ to 
anything that any person has ever achieved ! He is so far 
above us in purity of soul, but yet so near us in sym- 
pathy of spirit. His holiness has made Him not exclusive 
but comprehensive; and He welcomes to Himself all and 
sundry, without regard to the artificial barriers which 
have been such a menace to society. He has moreover 
opulently shown us the real worth of love, the greatest 
of all virtues. Give us a larger measure of this gift, 
that we may excel as followers of our Master and win 
disciples for Him. May we be unselfish and generous, 
thoughtful and courteous, earnest and gracious, thereby 
commending the merits of the Christian life. May the 
spell of this day of rest remain with us during the week 
and enrich us with the peace of the indwelling Spirit. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[157] 



nthWeeki THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

Monday J 



Monday: THE CHRISTIAN EXTRA 

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love 
one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love 
one another. By this shall all men know that ye are 
my disciples, if ye have love one to another. — ^John 
13:34,35- 

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost 
his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth 
good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden 
under foot of men. 

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a 
hill cannot be hid. 

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, 
but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that 
are in the house. 

Let yoiu: light so shine before men, that they may see 
your good works, and glorify your Father which is in 
heaven. 

Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the 
prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil: 

For verily I say imto you, Till heaven and earth pass, 
one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, 
till all be fulfilled. 

Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least 
commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called 
the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall 
do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the 
kingdom of heaven. 

For I say unto you. That except your righteousness 
shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Phari- 
sees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of 
heaven. . . . 

Ye have heard that it hath been said. Thou shalt love 
thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 

But I say imto you, Love your enemies, bless them 
that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray 
for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 

That ye may be the children of your Father which is 
in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and 

[158] 



THE CHRISTIAN LIFE [MondTjT* 

on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the un- 
just. 

For if ye love them which love you, what reward have 
ye? do not even the publicans the same? 

And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more 
than others? do not even the publicans so? 

Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is 
in heaven is perfect. — Matthew 5: 13-20, 43-48. 

We bless Thee, our gracious Lord God, that the stand- 
ards of Christian living are high and exacting. Herein 
we see a proof of Thy deep interest in us and of Thy 
confidence in us. Thou dost expect large things of us; 
and we are encouraged to respond by the thought that 
Thou hast provided richly for our needs from the bound- 
less wealth of Thy vast resources. May we be worthy 
of Thy trust and may we fulfil our privileged responsi- 
bility with a sense of filial obligation to Thee and of 
fraternal obligation to all people. We realize that the 
joys and duties of the Christian life can be rightly in- 
terpreted only in actual living. May we make it our busi- 
ness to let the light of Thy love and truth shine through 
us. May our influence be wholesome, so that others may 
catch the infection of our Christlike character. We thank 
Thee for such an ennobling challenge, and we pray for 
grace to meet it with consecration and courage. Inform 
our understanding; inspire our spirit; invigorate our will; 
that always and everywhere we may hold up the splendor 
and sufficiency of Thy redeeming love in Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[159] 



12th Week] THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

Tuesday J 



Tuesday: CHRISTIAN CHARACTER 

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love 
one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love 
one another. By this shall all men know that ye are 
my disciples, if ye have love one to another. — John 

13:34,35. 

Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the 
day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. 

Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us 
watch and be sober. 

For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that 
be drunken are drunken in the night. 

But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the 
breastplate of faith and love; and for a helmet, the hope 
of salvation. 

For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain 
salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 

Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we 
should live together with him. 

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one 
another, even as also ye do. 

And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which 
labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and 
admonish you; 

And to esteem them very highly in love for their 
work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves. 

Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are 
unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be 
patient toward all men. 

See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but 
ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, 
and to all men. 

Rejoice evermore. 

Pray without ceasing. 

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God 
in Christ Jesus concerning you. 

Quench not the Spirit. 

Despise not prophesyings. 

Prove all things ; hold fast that which is good. 

[160] 



THE CHRISTIAN LIFE ruth Week 

iTueaaay 

Abstain from all appearance of evil. 

And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and 
I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be 
preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus 
Christ. 

Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. — 
I Thessalonians 5 : 5-24. 

O Lord our God, Almighty Father and Giver of grace, 
we are glad of the Gospel, which proclaims that God is 
love. We recognize Thy power in the world of nature. 
We acknowledge Thy wisdom in the affairs of mankind. 
But it is in Jesus Christ that we clearly see the revelation 
of Thy might and mercy. Our souls are stirred within 
us as we think of the great sacrifice on the Cross and 
we are filled with gratitude and exultation. May our prac- 
tice of communion with Thee, not only at the family altar 
but also in the quiet of our private devotions, give us 
the spirit of composure in the presence of trial and con- 
flict. May we be further led to celebrate Thy goodness 
in a true-hearted, whole-hearted way, and show forth the 
praises of the God of wondrous salvation. May we ex- 
perience the joys of giving and sharing with one another, 
not only in the home but also with our friends and neigh- 
bors and all in need, both in this land and in lands beyond 
the sea. And may we do it in the name of Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[161] 



13th Week] THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

Wednesday} 



Wednesday: CHRISTIAN CONDUCT 

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love 
one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love 
one another. By this shall all men know that ye are 
my disciples, if ye have love one to another. — ^John 

13:34,35. 

Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which 
is evil; cleave to that which is good. 

Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly 
love; in honour preferring one another; 

Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the 
Lord; 

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing 
instant in prayer; 

Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hos- 
pitality. 

Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. 

Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them 
that weep. 

Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not 
high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be 
not wise in your own conceits. 

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things 
honest in the sight of all men. 

If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peace- 
ably with all men. 

Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give 
place unto wrath: for it is written. Vengeance is mine; 
I will repay, saith the Lord. 

Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him ; if he thirst, 
give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals 
of fire on his head. 

Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. 
— Romans 12: 9-21, 

O God our Redeemer, we adore Thee for the gift of 
Jesus Christ, who has brought love to the light of day. 
His way is clear and profitable. There are sudden turns 
[162] 



IWIIIII IT 



iiiri m i iin iili n lil l llilll ll llllFfTTTTT^^WffffTffTWin 



THE CHRISTIAN LIFE P^th Week 

iWednesday 

and trying surprises, and the path is uphill all the way, 
from morn to night. But Thou art near us as our Guide 
and Companion, and we have proved that through prayer 
we can overcome all difficulties. May our faith be tri- 
umphant and our joy abundant, as we remember that our 
work is from Thee. However commonplace and irksome 
it may be, we honor Thee as we do it diligently, fervently, 
earnestly. Thus can drudgery become divine, and struggle 
be a sacrament, and difficulty a discipline. We pray that 
the Light within may shed its radiance without and dispel 
all darkness. We pray that the Love divine may be more 
glorious in its healing influence, through our union with 
Thee and with one another. We pray for the church 
outside the churches, that we and they may cease to re- 
gard each other as aliens, seeing we are at heart the lovers 
of Jesus Christ. May the communion of saints be more 
deeply and widely realized throughout the world, in the 
name of Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[163] 



12th WeeAi THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

Thursday J 



Thursday: THE FULNESS OF CHRIST 

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love 
one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love 
one another. By this shall all men know that ye are 
my disciples, if ye have love one to another. — ^John 

13:34,35. 

I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that 
ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called. 

With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuifering, 
forbearing one another in love; 

Endeavouring to keep the imity of the Spirit in the 
bond of peace. 

There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are 
called in one hope of your calling; 

One Lord, one faith, one baptism. 

One God and Father of all, who is above all, and 
through all, and in you all. 

But unto every one of us is given grace according to 
the measure of the gift of Christ. . . . 

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and 
some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 

For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the 
ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 

Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the 
knowledge of the Son of God, tmto a perfect man, unto 
the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 

That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and 
fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by 
the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they 
lie in wait to deceive ; 

But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him 
in all things, which is the head, even Christ: 

From whom the whole body fitly joined together and 
compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according 
to the effectual working in the measure of every part, 
maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself 
in love. — Ephesians 4: 1-7, 11-16. 

We meet this evening to praise Thee, O blessed Lord, 
[164] 



vfvfvn 



THE CHRISTIAN LIFE li^th Week 

{.Thursday 

for all that we have received from Thee and to offer prayer 
for the. rightful performance of our several tasks. May we 
learn to know that it is not what we do but how we do 
it that gives distinction to our deeds and satisfaction to 
our souls. May the vision of Christian unity so captivate 
us that we shall gladly cooperate with all who name the 
Name of Christ, in spite of any sacrifice or inconvenience 
that might be involved. It is only as Christians are willing 
to be guided by the principle of self-denial that we shall 
be able to see the spread of the Gospel of salvation. 
May we always do our best and share with others in the 
joy of achievement. What matters it, whether we or they 
bf used, so long as Thy name receives the honor and the 
brotherhood of Christ is extended ! Establish us on the 
Rock and make us strong to endure. We leave ourselves 
in Thy gracious keeping for the night and would trust 
Thee for the coming day and forever, through Jesus 
Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[165] 



12th weeki THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

Friday J 



Friday: BEARING AND FULFILLING 

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love 
one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love 
one another. By this shall all men know that ye are 
my disciples, if ye have love one to another. — ^John 

13:34,35. 

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a faxilt, ye which 
are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meek- 
ness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 

Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law 
of Christ. 

For if a man think himself to be something, when he 
is nothing, he deceiveth himself. 

But let every man prove his own work, and then shall 
he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another, 
< ^ For every man shall bear his own burden. 
\ Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto 
.^fiim that teacheth in all good things. 
V Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever 
^4|£^ soweth, that shall he also reap. 
^"5 -'^Wp^ he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap 
\cQTXrVLption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of 
".tlte 'Spirit reap life everlasting. 

^ rAnd let us not be weary in well doing: for in due 
\ season we shall reap, if we faint not. 

As ^we have therefore opportunity, let us do good imto 
f all men, /especially imto them who are of the household 
of faithi-^Galatians 6: i-io. 

We*' confess to Thee, O God, our failures and short- 
comings, and we beseech Thee to pardon our offenses 
for Thy mercy's sake. Deliver us from evil. Purify and 
strengthen -*us in good. Prepare and fit us for helpful 
living. ;: Use us wherever we can justify and magnify 
^ / the law of Christ. May our behavior show kindness of 
disposition/arid let there be no sharpness nor bitterness of 



llllllllllllllllfrnimriiiiimiiiiiii iii i i i iiii ii ii i i i m i iini ■ 



THE CHRISTIAN LIFE ri?^.5 w^a 

iFriday 

thought. May our faith in Thee enable us to have faith 
in others, that we may be patient with the offender and 
not hasty in judgment. Teach us to distinguish between 
the stain and the scar in the characters of people. May 
we not be rash in judgment or reckless in behavior. 
Give us more of the mind of Christ that we may be 
discerning and considerate. May His love enlighten and 
sustain us in all our dealings. What we ask for our- 
selves and our limited relationships, we also ask for all 
ranks and conditions of people. May peace prevail be- 
tween men and nations, and progress be seen in the arts, 
comforts, and benefits of life, through Jesus Christ. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



- 9:^ 



\ 



\ 

\ 



1167] 



IjUg, 



ijth Week! THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

Saturday J 



Saturday: THE FINAL TESTING 

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love 
one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love 
one another. By this shall all men know that ye are 
my disciples, if ye have love one to another. — ^John 

13:34,35. 

According to the grace of God which is given unto me, 
as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and 
another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed 
how he buildeth thereupon. 

For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, 
which is Jesus Christ. 

Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, 
precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 

Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day 
shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and 
the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. 

If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, 
he shall receive a reward. 

If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss : 
but he himself shall be saved ; yet so as by fire. 

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that 
the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 

If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God 
destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye 
are. 

Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you 
seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, 
that he may be wise. 

For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God: 
for it is written. He taketh the wise in their own crafti- 
ness. 

And again. The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, 
that they are vain. 

Therefore let no man glory in men: for all things are 
yours ; 

Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or 
life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all 
are yours; 

[168] 



IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIMI 



THE CHRISTIAN LIFE UJtji Week 

ISaturday 

And ye are Christ's ; and Christ is God's. — I Corinthians 
3: 10-23. 

Gracious Father, we meet at the end of the week to 
bless Thy Name for the joys and demands of the Christian 
life. We thank Thee that we live in a land of freedom, 
where the privileges of opportunity are open to every one. 
We believe that merit comes to its own, and that genius 
and industry obtain the prizes of life. We pray for the 
public school and for all colleges, universities, and pro- 
fessional schools in our land, that they may train our 
youth in ways that will prepare them not merely to make 
a living but to grow a life in fidelity and honor. We 
pray for the Young Men's and Young Women's Christian 
Associations and other kindred societies which build char- 
acter. We pray for the Governor and legislature of our 
State and for all who occupy positions of leadership with- 
in its bounds, including the civic, municipal, industrial, 
commercial workers of our own town. We also pray 
for every State in the Union, for the President and Con- 
gress, and for all associated in establishing law and order. 
May the entire citizenship of our nation be loyal to the 
limit of its ability, and may the churches cooperate and 
lead to make our great democracy a praise in all the 
earth, by becoming an increasingly faithful steward of 
benefits and blessings to every nation in need, in the 
name of Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[169] 



13th WeeM CHRISTIAN LIVING 

Sunday J 



Sunday: WRESTLING AND WINNING 

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became 
poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. . . . 
Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. — II 
Corinthians 8 : 9 ; 9 : 15. 

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in 
the power of his might. 

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able 
to stand against the wiles of the devil. 

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against 
principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the 
darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in 
high places. 

Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, 
that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and 
having done all, to stand. 

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with 
truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness ; 

And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel 
of peace ; 

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye 
shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of 
the Spirit, which is the word of God: 

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the 
Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance 
and supplication for all saints. . . . 

Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from 
God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ 
in sincerity. Amen. — Ephesians 6: 10-18, 23, 24. 

Eternal God, we pray Thee for courage to keep the 

Christian ideal before us and earnestly to follow it from 

day to day. We are aware that the Christian life is one 

of struggle against evil and that the path is marked by 

[170] 



CHRISTIAN LIVING \^und7^^ 

difficulties. But Thou hast promised to be with us, and 
the banner over us is "Love divine, all loves excelling." 
Let us trust and not be afraid. Let us confide in Thee 
and not be cowardly. Let us follow Christ and not suffer 
sin to check our progress. Help us to be at our best in 
all our undertakings, knowing that Thou art honored in 
the small things no less than in the big things. May 
we remember that greatness is not measured by size and 
quantity, but by spirit and quality. Keep us at all times 
in the way of Thy precepts and promises. Unite all 
Christians in the bonds of common sympathy, so that 
their united obedience to Thy will may bring deliverance 
and peace to the nations of the world. May the virtues 
of this sacred day strengthen us for the duties of the 
week and may we find peace in the presence of Christ. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[171] 



13th weeki CHRISTIAN LIVING 

Monday J 



Monday: SPIRITUAL FREEDOM 

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became 
poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. . . . 
Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. — II 
Corinthians 8 : 9 ; 9 : 15. 

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which 
are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but 
after the Spirit. 

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath 
made me free from the law of sin and death. 

For what the law could not do, in that it was weak 
through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness 
of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 

That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled 
in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the 
Spirit. . . . 

Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, 
to live after the flesh. 

For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye 
through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye 
shall live. 

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are 
the sons of God. 

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again 
to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, 
whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that 
we are the children of God: 

And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint 
heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that 
we may be also glorified together. 

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time 
are not worthy to be compared with the glory which 
shall be revealed in us. — Romans 8:1-4, 12-18. 

Heavenly Father, we thank Thee for the eternal in- 
heritance of spiritual freedom in Jesus Christ. Open our 
[172] 



CHRISTIAN LIVING PJ^'* j^^* 

IMonday 

hearts to the influence of the Holy Spirit, that we may 
have finer discernment of Thy truth and richer refresh- 
ment in prompt attention to duty. Strengthen our inner- 
most being, that our thoughts may be pure, our desires 
right, our words clean, our deeds worthy of Christ. May 
we form helpful habits and indulge in honorable practices. 
May we think of the past with gratitude, of the present 
with diligence, and of the future with hopefulness. May 
we be ready to lend a helping hand to those in need, 
even at some inconvenience to ourselves. Forgive us our 
indifference and selfishness. Inspire us with kindness and 
sympathy. Direct us in the name of Him who went about 
doing good. Remove misunderstanding, suspicion, and 
discord, which so sadly obscure our ideals and visions, 
and which prevent us from advancing in richer friendship 
and fellowship with Thee. May the number of the faith- 
ful greatly increase, to the glory of Christ and the blessed- 
ness of the race. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[173] 



13th Week! CHRISTIAN LIVING 

Tuesday J 



Tuesday: UNITY AND GRACE 

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became 
poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. . . . 
Thanks be unto Grod for his unspeakable gift. — II 
Corinthians 8:9; 9 : 15. 

And they called them, and commanded them not to 
speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 

But Peter and John answered and said unto them, 
Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken imto 
you more than unto God, judge ye. 

For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen 
and heard. . . . 

And being let go, they went to their own company, 
and reported all that the chief priests and elders had 
said unto them. 

And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice 
to God with one accord, and said. Lord, thou art God, 
which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all 
that in them is; 

Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said. Why 
did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? 

The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were 
gathered together against the Lord, and against his 
Christ. 

For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou 
hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the 
Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered to- 
gether. 

For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel deter- 
mined before to be done. 

And now. Lord, behold their threatenings : and grant 
unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak 
thy word, 

By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs 
and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child 
Jesus. 

And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where 
they were assembled together; and they were all filled 

[174] 



CHRISTIAN LIVING UJth We^k 

{.Tuesday 

with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God 
with boldness. 

And the multitude of them that believed were of one 
heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that 
aught of the things which he possessed was his own; 
but they had all things common. 

And with great power gave the apostles witness of 
the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was 
upon them all.— Acts 4: 18-20, 23-33. 

Lord God, holy and true, our hope is in Thee, who 
art our refuge and strength. When the waters roar and 
the storm rages, those on the ship rely on the skill of 
the captain. As we voyage through the sea of life, we 
acknowledge Thee, O Christ, as the Author and Cap- 
tain of our salvation. All who have looked to Thee in 
straitened circumstances were helped, and not one was dis- 
appointed. In age after age and through succeeding gen- 
erations, Thou hast generously imparted guidance and 
comfort, and they who were thus sustained were not afraid 
of the threatenings of opposition. Thou dost still stretch 
forth Thy hand to heal, and we rejoice in Thy pardoning 
and consoling grace. May all in trouble turn to Thee for 
relief, since Thou hast not only overcome the world, but 
art richly able to strengthen those who trust in Thee to 
triumph over evil. 

"Lead on, O King Eternal, 

Till sin's fierce war shall cease, 
And holiness shall whisper 
The sweet Amen of peace." 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[1751 



I3th Week 1 CHRISTIAN LIVING 

Wednesdayl 



Wednesday: CHRISTIAN MARTYRS 

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became 
poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. . . . 
Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. — II 
Corinthians 8:9; 9 : 15. 

And above all things have fervent charity among your- 
selves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. 

Use hospitality one to another without grudging. 

As every man hath received the gift, even so minister 
the same one to another, as good stewards of the mani- 
fold grace of God. 

If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of 
God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability 
which God giveth ; that God in all things may be glorified 
through Jesus Christ: to whom be praise and dominion 
for ever and ever. Amen. 

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial 
which is to try you, as though some strange thing 
happened unto you: 

But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's 
sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may 
be glad also with exceeding joy. 

If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are 
ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: 
on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is 
glorified. 

But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, 
or as an evil doer, or as a busybody in other men's 
matters. 

Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be 
ashamed ; but let him glorify God on this behalf. 

For the time is come that judgment must begin at the 
house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the 
end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? 

And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the 
ungodly and the sinner appear? 

Wherefore, let them that suffer according to the will 

[176] 



CHRISTIAN LIVING UJth Week 

iWeanesaay 

of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well 
doing, as unto a faithful Creator. — I Peter 4:8-19. 

We glorify Thy Name, O God, for the many thousands 
who were faithful to Thee in the days of persecution. 
They answered the call and turned away from sin, to find 
in Christ mercy and forgiveness. They suffered bitter 
privations and were exposed to severe suffering for the 
sake of their faith. The enemy seemed to be all-powerful, 
and he never failed to do his worst to afflict and even 
destroy the chosen of God. Although the body was broken, 
the spirit of these martyrs and saints kept lighted the 
torch of truth, and the fires of enthusiasm were a quick- 
ening inspiration to those who came after them. In spite 
of the gloom of adversity, the clouds dropped fatness, and 
they were enriched beyond all human resources. They 
won out because they did not wage a warfare at their 
own charges, and their weapons were spiritual. The 
forces of darkness could not, therefore, prevail against 
them. Their fidelity was the good seed of the Kingdom 
of God, which has been yielding fruitful harvests during 
succeeding generations. May we receive their priceless 
legacy, with the firm resolution that nothing shall sway 
us from our purpose to be loyal to Jesus Christ. Enable 
us to go forward with courage and consistency for the 
glory of God. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[177] 



l^l^i Weekx CHRISTIAN LIVING 

Thursday J 



Thursday: DISCIPLESHIP AND DEVOTION 

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became 
poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. . . . 
Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. — II 
Corinthians 8:9; 9 : 15. 

The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant 
above his lord. 

It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, 
and the servant as his lord. If they have called the 
master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall 
they call them of his household? 

Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, 
that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be 
known. 

What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: 
and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the 
housetops. 

And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able 
to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to 
destroy both soul and body in hell. 

Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of 
them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. 

But the very hairs of your head are all niunbered. 

Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many 
sparrows. 

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him 
will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. 

But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I 
also deny before my Father which is in heaven. . . . 

He that receiveth you receiveth me; and he that re- 
cciveth me receiveth him that sent me. 

He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet 
shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth 
a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall 
receive a righteous man's reward. 

And whosoever shall give to drink imto one of these 
little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a 

[178] 



CHRISTIAN LIVING UJth Week 

iThursday 

disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose 
his reward. — Matthew lo: 24-33, 40-42. 

Most Holy God, we thank Thee for the fearlessness of 
the Christian life. Those who trusted in Thee were as- 
sured that whatever befell them could not hide their vision 
of Thy love and purity. They were under Thy con- 
siderate care, and the power of evil could not master 
them so long as they kept in the line of obedience. Make 
us also strong in the time of testing. May we be trustful 
in the seasons of anxiety and mindful of Thy promises 
when discouraged. Truly, Thou art good, and Thy grace 
abounds towards all, especially to them who walk up- 
rightly. When we are tempted to doubt Thy Providence, 
may we recall Thy mercy and kindness in the past and 
revive our confidence in Thy presence with us for guid- 
ance, now and always. Give us a generous outlook, and 
endow us with sympathy, that we may become messengers 
of Thy grace, to bring gladness to lives stained with sor- 
row and overcast by distress. May our Christian disciple- 
ship be proved by deeds. Our confessional will then be 
praiseworthy and profitable, and Thy Name shall have 
the glory, through Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[179] 



FridaJ^^] CHRISTIAN LIVING 



Friday: GOD'S COMMENDATION 

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became 
poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. . . . 
Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. — II 
Corinthians 8: 9; 9: 15. 

Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is 
in Christ Jesus. 

And the things that thou hast heard of me among many 
witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who 
shall be able to teach others also. 

Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of 
Jesus Christ. 

No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs 
of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen 
him to be a soldier. 

And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not 
crowned, except he strive lawfully. 

The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker 
of the fruits. 

Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee under- 
standing in all things. 

Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was 
raised from the dead, according to my gospel: 

Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even imto 
bonds; but the word of God is not boimd. 

Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sake, 
that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ 
Jesus with eternal glory. 

It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, 
we shall also live with him: 

If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny 
him, he also will deny us: 

If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot 
deny himself. 

Of these things put them in remembrance, charging 
them before the Lord that they strive not about words 
to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. 

[180] 



CHRISTIAN LIVING [/riida^^^ 

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman 
that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the 
word of truth. — II Timothy 2: 1-15. 

Praise be to Thee, O eternal God, for the splendid 
examples of those who were steadfast because Thou 
didst make them competent to do the divine will. They 
thought of life as a sacred trust and an ennobling under- 
taking; and they summoned all their ransomed powers 
to bear a full testimony by seemly word and genuine deed. 
They rejoiced in Thy confidence in them, and so they sang 
in their struggle and were brave to bear their burdens. 
May we think of these consecrated hosts, who, through 
union with Christ, went on to perfection. Pour out upon 
us the Spirit of holiness and truth, that we may be devout 
in Thy Presence, devoted to Thy purposes, and deter- 
mined to confess Thee in simplicity and singleness of life. 
Show us whatever is harmful and embarrassing, that we 
may cast it off and not become entangled in the petty 
prejudices and perverting passions which confuse our 
aims and prevent our allegiance. Forgive us the errors 
and misdeeds of this day, and grant us grace to continue 
in our career in the consciousness of Thy pardon, Thy 
presence, and Thy peace, through Jesus Christ, our 
Saviour and Lord. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[181] 



s^uJd^^] CHRISTIAN LIVING 



Saturday: BROKEN, NOT BEATEN 

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became 
poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. . . , 
Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. — II 
Corinthians 8 : 9 ; 9 : 15. 

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the 
Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. 

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of 
darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light 
of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of 
Jesus Christ. 

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the 
excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; 
we are perplexed, but not in despair; 

Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not 
destroyed ; 

Always bearing about in the body the dying of the 
Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made 
manifest in our body. 

For we which live are alway delivered xmto death 
for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be 
made manifest in our mortal flesh. 

So then death worketh in us, but life in you. 

We having the same spirit of faith, according as it 
is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we 
also believe, and therefore speak; 

Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall 
raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. 

For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant 
grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound 
to the glory of God. 

For which cause we faint not ; but though oiu" outward 
man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, 
worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight 
of glory; 

While we look not at the things which are seen, but 

[182] 



CHRISTIAN LIVING [^fuJd!^^ 

at the things which are not seen: for the things which 
are seen are temporal; but the things which are not 
seen are eternal. — II Corinthians 4: 5-18. 

Heavenly Father, unite our hearts in praise to Thee 
for Thy mercies which are new every morning and which 
bring us to the close of each day with a sense of Thy 
peace. It has never been easy to encounter and overcome 
the deceptions of selfishness, but we are happy to know 
that where sin abounded, grace did abound more exceed- 
ingly. This reliance on Thy superior power is the true 
secret of triumph over every conflict. In this day of 
trying experiences, may we think of those who had no 
fear and who did not yield to temptation, but with patient 
perseverance kept in the way of truth and honor and 
secured for themselves the prizes of eternal life. Let us 
look up to Thee and have the radiance of joy. Then let 
us lift up others and lead them to the one foundation and 
only hope, whereby they may receive their portion of 
blessing and bliss from the Father of lights, with whom 
there is no variation nor partiality. May the services to- 
morrow prove a means of grace to large numbers of peo- 
ple, to guide them in the way of peace and gladness 
through Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[183] 



&>ecia7 Days 1 NEW YEAR'S DAY 

Nefw Years Day] 



STRENGTH AND SUFFICIENCY 

Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who 
only doeth wondrous things. 

And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let 
the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and 
Amen. — Psalm ^2 : i8, 19. 

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence 
cometh my help. 

My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven 
and earth. 

He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that 
keepeth thee will not slumber. 

Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber 
nor sleep. 

The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon 
thy right hand. 

The sim shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by 
night. 

The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall 
preserve thy soul. 

The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming 
in from this time forth, and even for evermore. — Psalm 
121: 1-8. 

When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, we 
were like them that dream. 

Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our 
tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen. 
The Lord hath done great things for them. 

The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we 
are glad. 

Turn again our captivity, O Lord, as the streams in 
the south. 

They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. 

He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, 
shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his 
sheaves with him. — Psalm 126: 1-6. 

O God our Help in ages past, we enter upon another 
year with gratitude to Thee for Thy many favors, with 
[184] 



NEW YEAR'S DAY [^^^^i^^r. 

INew it ear* a Day 

confidence in Thy supreme wisdom and gracious power, 
with determination to seek Thy will and to do it in the 
earnest consecration of love and loyalty. We confess the 
omissions and blunders of the past year, and we pray 
for Thy pardoning grace. As we review the events and 
happenings of the last year, we note that Thy provi- 
dences have crowded our lives. Blessings innumerable 
have come to us, which we did not recognize at the time 
because our eyes were dim and our ears heavy. For the 
Xew Year, give us the clear serenity of vision, the fervent 
buoyancy of hope, the assuring conviction of faith. May 
the spirit of wonder and joy fill our lives, so that we 
may regard each day as a new opportunity, in which to 
show forth Thy praise in deeds of kindness and love. 
Give us the firm assurance that seed sown under diffi- 
culties yields rich harvests for our reaping. May we con- 
tinue in prayer, grow in grace, increase in the knowledge 
of Christ, and multiply the fruits of truth and righteous- 
ness. Grant the divine favor to all Thy people, that, their 
lives being marked by renewed zeal and devotion, they 
may help to make this year the richest and best in all 
history, to the glory of Thy name in Jesus Christ. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[185] 



Special Days 1 PALM SUN DAY 

Palm Sunday} 



THE COMING ONE 

Now the God of peace, that brought again from the 
dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the 
sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 
make you perfect in every good work to do his will, 
working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, 
through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and 
ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13 : 20, 21. 

And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to 
Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called the mount 
of Olives, he sent two of his disciples. 

Saying, Go ye into the village over against you; in 
the which at your entering ye shall find a colt tied, 
whereon yet never man sat: loose him, and bring him 
hither. 

And if any man ask you. Why do ye loose him? thus 
shall ye say unto him, Because the Lord hath need of 
him. 

And they that were sent went their way, and found 
even as he had said imto them. 

And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof 
said unto them, Why loose ye the colt? 

And they said. The Lord hath need of him. 

And they brought him to Jesus: and they cast their 
garments upon the colt, and they set Jesus thereon. 

And as he went, they spread their clothes in the way. 

And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent 
of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the 
disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud 
voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; 

Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name 
of the Lord : peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. 

And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude 
said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples. 

And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, 
if these should hold their peace, the stones would im- 
mediately cry out. — Luke 19:29-40. 

[186] 



PALM SUNDAY TSpecialDays 

IPalin Sunday 

Almighty and Everlasting God, the Giver of life, in 
Whom we live and move and have our being, Thou hast 
drawn nigh to the sons of men in every age and Thou 
hast spoken through persons and events according to the 
understanding of the race. Thy best word was uttered 
in and by Jesus Christ, through whom we now have access 
into Thy presence. May we discern the mind of God as 
the blessed Master has revealed it, so that we may not 
be like the thoughtless multitudes or the prejudiced rulers 
of Israel, who turned away from the Chosen of God. 
May we be like that thoughtful company, who were not 
carried away by mere emotion nor controlled by darkening 
counsel but who took note of all the facts and gave to 
Jesus the royal welcome of grateful obedience and honest 
service. Such devoted souls have seen His day and re- 
joiced in its coming with light and liberty. Give us new 
visions of His greater glory as His Gospel of redemption 
is accepted among the nations. Nothing can stand in the 
way of its steady advance. May we not be afraid of the 
opposition of evil, but be strong to do Thy blessed will 
at any cost. Keep us steadfast and true and may we 
always be found in the way of Thy Son, our Saviour and 
Lord. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[187] 



^^^5d^] GOOD FRIDAY 



THE CROSS AND CALVARY 

Now the God of peace, that brought again from the 
dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the 
sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 
make you perfect in every good work to do his will, 
working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, 
through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and 
ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13 : 20, 21. 

And when they were come to the place which is called 
Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, 
one on the right hand, and the other on the left. 

Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know 
not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast 
lots. 

And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also 
with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him 
save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God. 

And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and 
offering him vinegar. 

And saying. If thou be the King of the Jews, save 
thyself. 

And a superscription also was written over him in let- 
ters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, This is the King 
of the Jews. 

And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed 
on him, saying. If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. 

But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost 
not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same con- 
demnation? 

And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward 
of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. 

And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou 
comest into thy kingdom. 

And Jesus said imto him. Verily I say imto thee, To 
day shalt thou be with me in paradise. 

And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a 
darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. 

[188] 



GOOD FRIDAY TSpecialDays 

iGood Friday 

And the sun was darkened, and the vail of the temple 
was rent in the midst. 

And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, 
Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having 
said thus, he gave up the ghost. 

Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glori- 
fied God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man. — 
Luk ^ 23 : 33-47« 

Thanks be unto Thee, O God, for Thy unspeakable gift, 
even the Son of Thy love, who offered Himself a sacrifice 
for our redemption. We recall the events that led up to 
Calvary, and we think of the sacrificial life of our blessed 
Saviour in the days of His flesh, as He went about doing 
good, healing disease and proclaiming the Gospel of the 
Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of man. May 
the appeal of the Cross drive away selfishness and mean- 
ness from our hearts and implant a spirit of honor and self- 
denying service. We accept Thee as the Suffering God, 
whose sympathy imparts strength, and the constraint of 
whose love exacts from us who are benefited thereby the 
prompt discharge of responsibility. We also acknowledge 
Thee as the Victorious God and pray that we may be 
consistent in fidelity to Thy truth. 

May all who are Christians give practical proof of al- 
legiance to Jesus, who suffered and was crucified that we 
might have life. May we convey the benefits of His pas- 
sion to others as we walk in the way of the Cross. Enrich 
our experience of Thy redeeming and sanctifying grace 
and quicken us in every good word and work, that at all 
times we may show forth the praises of Him who hath 
called us into his marvellous light, to love and live through 
Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[189] 



SpecMDayj 1 EASTER SUNDAY 

Easter Sunday 1 



THE LIVING AND REIGNING CHRIST 

Now the God of peace, that brought again from the 
dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the 
sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 
make you perfect in every good work to do his will, 
working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, 
through Jesus Christ ; to whom be glory for ever and 
even Amen. — Hebrews 13 : 20, 21. 

In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward 
the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and 
the other Mary to see the sepulchre. 

And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the 
angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and 
rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. 

His coimtenance was like lightning, and his raiment 
white as snow: 

And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became 
as dead men. 

And the angel answered and said unto the women. 
Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was 
crucified. 

He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see 
the place where the Lord lay. 

And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen 
from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into 
Galilee ; there shall ye see him : lo, I have told you. 

And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with 
fear and great joy; and did rim to bring his disciples 
word. 

And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus 
met them, saying. All hail. And they came and held him 
by the feet, and worshipped him. 

Then said Jesus unto them. Be not afraid: go tell my 
brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they 
see me. — Matthew 28: i-io. 

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus 
[190] 



EASTER SUNDAY r^ecialDays 

lEaster Sunday 

Christ, who has given us the assurance of immortahty 
and a foretaste of our heavenly inheritance through the 
Risen Saviour. On this day we join with muhitudes of 
believing people in celebrating Thy glorious triumph over 
sin and death. Just as the disciples came out of the dark- 
ness of Good Friday into the splendid light of Easter, 
so may we always remember that depressing and tiresome 
experiences pass away or can be endured, only as we 
welcome Thee in our midst, always to abide with us. 
May the truth of the Resurrection of Christ send out 
rays to illumine faith, to quicken hope, and to stimulate 
love to the farthest bounds of earth. May our confidence 
in the Living One be strengthened, our hope of His com- 
ing glories be vitalized, our love of God and man be in- 
creased, as we realize Thy presence from day to day, in 
the communion of prayer and service. Speak the word 
of comfort and peace to all who sorrow, and may their 
sense of loss become endurable by the thought that their 
beloved are safe with Thee, in the land of eternal love and 
light. Keep us faithful through all our life, by the merits 
and triumph of Jesus Christ. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[191] 



SpeciiUDavB ^ ASCENSION DAY 

Ascension Day} 



THE FINAL VICTOR 

Now the God of peace, that brought again from the 
dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the 
sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 
make you perfect in every good work to do his will, 
working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, 
through Jesus Christ ; to whom be glory for ever and 
ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13:20, 21. 

Above when he said. Sacrifice and offering and barnt 
offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither 
hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; 

Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He 
taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. 

By the which will we are sanctified through the offering 
of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. 

And every priest standeth daily ministering and offer- 
ing oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take 
away sins: 

But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for 
sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; 

From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made 
his footstool. 

For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them 
that are sanctified. . . . 

Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the 
holiest by the blood of Jesus, 

By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for 
us, through the vail, that is to say, his flesh; 

And having a high priest over the house of God; 

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance 
of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil con- 
science, and our bodies washed with pure water. 

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without 
wavering; for he is faithful that promised; 

And let us consider one another to provoke xmto love 
and to good works: 

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, 
as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: 

[192] 



ASCENSION DAY rSpecia/ Days 

lAacension Day 

and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. 
— Hebrews 10:8-14, 19-25. 

Heavenly Father, we glorify Thee for the victorious 
life of Jesus Christ, who completed His mission in tri- 
umph and is now crowned with glory and honor, at the 
right hand of the Majesty on high. We celebrate a 
Saviour who was thorough in His work for us men and 
for our salvation. We are glad to know that His ascen- 
sion to the celestial glory, whence He came from the 
Father, does not separate Him from his followers, but 
has really brought Him nearer to them in spiritual com- 
munion. While we proclaim Thee, O Christ, as the uni- 
versal Saviour, there yet remain large tracts of wild and 
treacherous wastes to be redeemed. And this must be 
done by us who confess Thy Lordship. Deepen the foun- 
tains of our life and may we be rooted and grounded in 
love divine, that our character and behavior may extend 
the righteousness and rulership of Christ, even to the 
uttermost parts of the world. May the nations definitely 
and seriously reckon with Jesus Christ. Let them all see 
that the world's sore needs can be adequately supplied 
only as He is taken into consideration. May we all accept 
and advertise the wonders of redeeming grace, until the 
earth shall be filled with the purity and peace of the 
Ascended and Enthroned One. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[193] 



Specia/ DajTBl 
Whitmunday J 



WHITSUNDAY 



THE HOLY SPIRIT 



Now the God of peace, that brought again from the 
dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the 
sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 
make you perfect in every good work to do his will, 
working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, 
through Jesus Christ ; to whom be glory for ever and 
ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13:20,21. 

If ye love me, keep my commandments. 

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you an- 
other Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 

Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot re- 
ceive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: 
but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be 
in you. 

I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. 
. • . These things have I spoken unto you, being yet 
present with you. 

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the 
Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all 
things, and bring all things to your remembrance, what- 
soever I have said unto you.— John 14: 15-18, 25, 26. 

And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they 
were all with one accord in one place. 

And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of 
a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where 
they were sitting. 

And there appeared imto them cloven tongues like as 
of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 

And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and be- 
gan to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them 
utterance. . . . 

But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his 
voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judea, and all ye 
that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and 
hearken to my words : 

For these are not drimken, as ye suppose, seeing it is 
but the third hour of the day. 

[194] 



WHITSUNDAY f^^^ ^f^^ 

But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel: 

And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, 
I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons 
and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men 
shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: 

And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will 
pour out in those days of my Spirit: and they shall 
prophesy. . . . 

And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call 
on the name of the Lord shall be saved, — Acts 2:1-4, 
14-18, 21. 

Thou God of light and truth, who hast given a right 
understanding to Thy faithful people and enabled them 
to live in the obedience of love, we bless Thy Name for 
continuing these favors through succeeding generations. 
May the same Pentecostal Spirit who enlightened and em- 
boldened the apostles of old give to us also His Presence, 
that, our thoughts being cleansed by the illumination and 
inspiration of the Holy Spirit, our hearts may be kindled, 
our judgment correct, and our wills inclined towards 
Thee. So will our lives find comfort in the living Christ 
and yield the peaceable fruits of righteousness to Thy 
great glory. May the Spirit Divine exercise a deeper and 
fuller control, that there may be unit}- in diversity among 
Christians, and their talents and achievements may funher 
the best interests of the world, in art, science, knowledge, 
commerce, politics, legislation, and international inter- 
course. Guide our ways and works in the church, the 
home, and society, that in all things Thou mayest receive 
the preeminence in Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[195] 



f^tJrF'BIy] MOTHERS' DAY 



A VIRTUOUS WOMAN 

Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who 
only doeth wondrous things. 

And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let 
the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and 
Amen. — Psalm 72 : 18, 19. 

Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far 
above rubies. 

The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so 
that he shall have no need of spoil. 

She will do him good and not evil all the days of her 
life. 

Sb« seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with 
ker hands. 

She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food 
from afar. 

She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat 
to her household, and a portion to her maidens. 

She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with .the fruit 
of her hands she planteth a vineyard. 

She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth 
her arms. 

She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her 
candle goeth not out by night. 

She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold 
the distaff. 

She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she 
reacheth forth her hands to the needy. 

She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for 
all her household are clothed with scarlet. 

She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing 
is silk and purple. 

Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth 
among the elders of the land. 

She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth 
girdles imto the merchant. 

Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall 
rejoice in time to come. 

[196] 



MOTHERS* DAY l??^?L^^ 9^^^ 

imothera Day 

She openeth her mouth with wisdom ; and in her tongue 
is the law of kindness. 

She looketh well to the ways of her household, and 
cateth not the bread of idleness. 

Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husr 
band also, and he praise th her. — Proverbs 31: 10-28. 

We lift up our hearts to Thee, O God, and remember 
the many mercies which have enriched our lives up to 
this present. Thy lovingkindness and plenteous redemp- 
tion have wrought marvels for us and the thought of 
them gratifies and encourages us. We thank Thee today 
more especially for the religious home and what it has 
done to bring sweetness and strength into life. The 
devoted services and sacrifices of motherhood have in- 
deed been the secret of much that is worthy in the home. 
Grant Thy richest blessing to every mother, that she may 
rely more fully on Thee and receive wisdom and courage, 
patience and endurance to order aright the ways of her 
children. We also pray for the fathers, that they may 
rejoice in the privilege of responsibility. Look on every 
home where sorrow has entered, and may the peace of 
Thy Presence bring the comforts of the Gospel to those 
who are sad and anxious. Guide back any erring sons 
and daughters from their prodigal ways, and lead the 
filial onward in the name of the Son of Mary, our Saviour 
and Lord. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[197] 



^peci^lDaya 1 MEMORIAL DAY 

MexnoTial Days 



THE SACRED PAST 

Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who 
only doeth wondrous things. 

And blessed be his glorious name for ever : and let 
the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and 
Amen. — Psalm y2 : i8, 19. 

We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have 
told us, what work thou didst in their days, in the times 
of old. 

How thou didst drive out the heathen with thy hand, 
and plantedst them; how thou didst afflict the people, 
and cast them out. 

For they got not the land in possession by their own 
sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy 
right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy counte- 
nance, because thou hadst a favour imto them. 

Thou art my King, O God: command deliverances for 
Jacob. 

Through thee will we push down our enemies : through 
thy name will we tread them under that rise up against us. 

For I will not trust in my bow, neither shall my sword 
save me. 

But thou hast saved us from our enemies, and hast put 
them to shame that hated us. 

In God we boast all the day long, and praise thy name 
for ever. — Psalm 44: 1-8. 

The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: 
the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the 
simple. 

The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart : 
the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the 
eyes. 

The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the 
judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. 

More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much 
fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. 
—Psalm 19:7-10. 

Thou Mighty God, who hast commanded and effected 
[198] 



MEMORIAL DAY Ff^^^^^^^f?;* 

iMeznoTial Day 

deliverances for us, we lift our voices, in praise to Thee, 
as we remember Thy mercies towards us. Today as we 
recall the deeds of valor and heroism of our forbears 
in the testing times of the Civil War, we bless Thee be- 
cause Thou didst not fail them. They counted nothing 
too dear in the performance of their duty to uphold the 
sacred principle that right makes might. They were 
firmly persuaded that the rights of the people must be 
maintained at any cost, and they finished the work with 
success because they were guided by the ideal of malice 
toward none, with charity for all, and with firmness in the 
right as Thou gavest them to see the right. We celebrate 
the fidelity of those at the front and of those who re- 
mained behind to keep the home fires burning. We ap- 
preciate their sacrifices and we realize that the progress 
made by our nation since those days of turmoil has been 
due to their triumph of national unity. We also remember 
the heroic souls in what, please God, may be the last war 
in the world. May our courage rise to the present occa- 
sion of many demands in a spirit of patriotic devotion, 
leading us to do our utmost to realize more fully that 
ideal, where government of the people, by the people, for 
the people, shall increasingly flourish in our own nation, 
and be spread among all the nations of the world, through 
the merits of our Saviour Jesus Christ. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[199] 



Special DayBl FLAG DAY 

Flag Day j 



THE NATION'S SYMBOL 

Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who 
only doeth wondrous things. 

And blessed be his glorious name for ever : and let 
the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and 
Amen. — Psalm 72 : 18, 19. 

The Lord hear thee in the day of trouble; the name 
of the God of Jacob defend thee; 

Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee 
out of Zion; 

Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacri- 
fice; 

Grant thee according to thine own heart, and fulfil 
all thy coimsel. 

We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of 
our God we will set up our banners: the Lord fulfil all 
thy petitions. 

Now know I that the Lord saveth his anointed; he will 
hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength 
of his right hand. 

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses : but we will 
remember the name of the Lord our God. 

They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, 
and stand upright. 

Save, Lord: let the king hear us when we call. — Psalm 
20: 1-9. 

Lord God, Mighty Ruler of the universe, we praise Thee 
for the power and majesty, the glory and wisdom, the 
goodness and love. Thou hast exhibited among the sons 
of men. We can say with humility and confidence that 
Thou hast shown signal mercies to our nation. We do 
not regard these blessings as tokens of partiality, but as 
reminders of responsibility. We bless Thee that our flag 
is the symbol of those noble and humane principles which 
have made for liberty, justice, and happiness. It is also 
[200] 



FLAG DAY F?^^ ^^^^ 

IFlag Day 

:he 5}Tnbol of national unity, national idealism, national 
5er\'ice. . We think of the background of white as the 
s)Tnbol of purity of character; of blue as the symbol of 
loyal t>' which holds the nation in solid unity; of red as 
the symbol of sacrifice shown all through the nation s 
history, down to our own day, in the war happily ended. 
Wherever our flag has gone, the rights of mankind have 
been maintained and tyrannies have trembled. We pray 
that it may continue to float over a free and faithful 
people; and that wherever it is flung to the breezes, in 
whatever clime, it may be recognized as the symbol of 
redemption. Help us, that our puri:; :: purpose may be 
genuine, our loyalty of spirit eames: ?.rA otu- sacrifice 
of life hearty, in the name of Jesus Chris:, our Saviour 
and Lord. 

The Lord" 5 Prayer. 



[201] 



Spe<:ialDays 1 INDEPENDENCE DAY 

Independence Dayj 



LIBERTY, EQUALITY, FRATERNITY 

Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who 
only doeth wondrous things. 

And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let 
the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and 
Amen. — Psalm ^2 : i8, 19. 

I will publish the name of the Lord: ascribe ye great- 
ness unto our God. 

He is the Rock, his work is perfect; for all his ways 
are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just 
and right is he. 

They have corrupted themselves, their spot is not the 
spot of his children: they are a perverse and crooked 
generation. 

Do ye thus requite the Lord, O foolish people and un- 
wise? is not he thy Father that hath bought thee? hath 
he not made thee, and established thee? 

Remember the days of old, consider the years of many 
generations: ask thy father, and he will shew thee; thy 
elders, and they will tell thee. — Deuteronomy 32 : 3-7. 

Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears 
to the words of my mouth. 

I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark 
sayings of old: 

Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have 
told us. 

We will not hide them from their children, shewing 
to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and 
his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done. 

For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed 
a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that 
they should make them known to their children: 

That the generation to come might know them, even 
the children which should be bom; who should arise and 
declare them to their children: 

That they might set their hope in God, and not forget 
the works of God, but keep his commandments. — Psalm 
78:1-7. 

[202] 



INDEPENDENCE DAY TSpecial Days 

llndependence Day 

O God of nations, we think of the history of the world 
as a series of ordered advances, making for progress 
through conflict and sacrifice. If we think of Thee as the 
God of our nation, it is not in any exclusive sense. We 
acknowledge the advantages we enjoy by reason of our 
extensive and fruitful domains. We can never forget that 
they were secured for us by labors which involved self- 
denial and bloodshed. We honor those who enlisted in 
the struggle to establish those humane principles which 
conserve the inalienable rights of all mankind to life, 
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The patriots strove 
for the ideal of self-government without the interference 
of tyranny, and they succeeded in obtaining the benefits 
of a free people. As we recall the exploits of the Thirteen 
Colonies and the fidelity of succeeding generations, we 
pray that we may be able to show an unstinted measure 
of devotion to the best interests of our country. May we 
also respond to the needs of the nations broken by war 
and may we do all in our power to bind up their wounds, 
to feed and clothe them in their destitution, and to enable 
them to find the soul of democracy and to cherish it, for 
the emancipation of themselves from despoilers of every 
sort. Give us all the true international spirit which will 
prevent any more wars and establish the brotherhood of 
man, in the name of Jesus Christ. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[203] 



^jSTs^^sn^y] ALL SAINTS^ DAY 



UNITED CHRISTIAN TESTIMONY 

Now the God of peace, that brought again from 
the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the 
sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 
make you perfect in ever}' good work to do his will, 
working in you that which is well pleasing in his 
sight, through Jesus Christ ; to whom be glor^^ for 
ever and ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13:20, 21. 

And what shall I more say? for the time would fail 
me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and 
of Jephthah; of David also, and Samuel, and of the 
prophets: 

Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought right- 
eousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, 

Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the 
sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant 
in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. 

Women received their dead raised to life again: and 
others were tortured, not accepting deliverante; that 
they might obtain a better resurrection: 

And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, 
yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: 

They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were 
tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about 
in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, 
tormented; 

Of whom the world was not worthy: they wandered 
in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of 
the earth. 

And these all, having obtained a good report through 
faith, received not the promise: 

God having provided some better thing for us, that 
they without us should not be made perfect. 

Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with 
so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every 
weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and 
let us run with patience the race that is set before us. 

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; 

[204] 



ALL SAINTS' DAY \^/^J^^ ^^"A 

lAJJ Sa^ntB Day 

who for the joy that was set before him endured the 
cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right 
hand of the throne of God. — Hebrews ii: 32 — 12: 2. 

We thank Thee, O God. for the sacred memory of the 
5ointc w'^^''^ ^v'^ viced ^''"'"e'^ - - — — -s .-^ \v2.v^ -."1 ^rie"' 3. 'u'^^er 



for themselves sr : :t::: .e s : essi.g to others because 
they conquere d s e f ^ r 1 :r.t:: 5 1 1 : r. : ; ^hts of love for 
Christ, and c:: dr rt: re r :; - :; zy hr ministry of 
kindly service. 1r.ty .vere unr^Lnov.n :o fame yet well 
known to Thee, in whom they rejoiced, and by whom 
they were inspired for all true living. Since ihty loved 
Christ and lived for Him, we think of :dr :: : : refer- 
ence to clime, creed, or color. We pra :: 1: d 5 e?: 
of Christ-like character may mean m:re in n.ese lis 
May Christians be united in the bcnii :f 5 nradn ani 
common service, so that emulation may take dne riace 
of contention and competition. May the h:n:r :t Christ 
and the pressing needs of the v. :rid :e rer riei as n:re 
important than the customs oz ra: : :n ^■'^'^y dnarity. 
generosity, magnanimity, and ::ar:esy :e ^.'.-•'■-ly^ sd: vn, 
in the name and for the sake of : ar :ne ?.ni :ni Master 
and Lord, to whom with Thee, O ?a: er an: :ne tdrice 
blessed Spirit, be honor and glory, world without end. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[206] 



f^^J.^^, D.y] THANKSGIVING DAY 



THE GOOD GOD 

Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who 
only doeth wondrous things. 

And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let 
the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and 
Amen. — Psalm 72 : 18, 19. 

O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his 
mercy endureth for ever. 

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath 
redeemed from the hand of the enemy; 

And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, 
and from the west, from the north, and from the south. 

They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; 
they found no city to dwell in. 

Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them. 

Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and 
he delivered them out of their distresses. 

And he led them forth by the right way, that they 
might go to a city of habitation. 

Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, 
and for his wonderful works to the children of men ! 

For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the 
hungry soul with goodness. — Psalm 107: 1-9. 

The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in 
those that hope in his mercy. 

Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem; praise thy God, O Zion. 

For he hath strengthened the bars of thy gates; he 
hath blessed thy children within thee. 

He maketh peace in thy borders, and filleth thee with 
the finest of the wheat. . . . Praise ye the Lord. — Psalm 
147: 11-14, 20. 

O God of majesty and mercy, we adore and magnify 
Thy reverend Name for the innumerable benefits enjoyed 
by us as a people. It is a collective memory that takes 
us back to the Pilgrims and their serious purpose to 
worship God according to the dictates of their enlightened 
[206] 



THANKSGIVING DAY rSpecUi Days 

ITharLksgivmg Day 

conscience. Their celebrations were hearty and sincere 
and they laid strong foundations with prophetic vision. 
We remember with gratitude the sacrifices of the Revolu- 
tionists to maintain the right of self-government and the 
freedom of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We 
recall with gratitude the struggles of the Civil War for 
the principle of government of the people, by the people, 
for the people, which is the basis of a united nation. 
We bless Thee for the signal triumph of Right over the 
tyranny of militarism and for the noble part recently 
played by our nation to secure peace for the world and 
a guarantee that the future shall never again be stained 
by the tragedy and desolation of war. Truly, our lot has 
been cast in memorable times. }^Iay we not regard our 
blessings as a matter of course, but consider them as a 
legacy to be enriched for the benefit of coming genera- 
tions. May we show piety, courage, and neighborliness 
in the discharge of our duties; and to this end we con- 
secrate our Hves, in the name of Jesus Christ. 
The Lord's Prayer. 



[2071 



Special Days 1 CHRISTMAS DAY 

Christmas Day J 



CHEER AND COURAGE 

Now the God of peace, that brought again from 
the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the 
sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, 
make you perfect in every good work to do his will, 
working in you that which is well pleasing in his 
sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for 
ever and ever. Amen. — Hebrews 13:20, 21. 

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city 
of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which 
is called Bethlehem, (because he was of the house and 
lineage of David,) 

To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great 
with child. 

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days 
were accomplished that she should be delivered. 

And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped 
him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; be- 
cause there was no room for them in the inn. 

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding 
in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the 
glory of the Lord shone round about them; and they 
were sore afraid. 

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, 
I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to 
all people. 

For unto you is born this day in the city of David 
a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the 
babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude 
of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good 
will toward men. 

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from 
them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another. 
Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing 
[208] 



CHRISTMAS DAY rSpec/a/Days 

IChnstmaa Day 

which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known 
unto us. 

And they came with haste, and found Mary and Joseph, 
and the babe lying in a manger. 

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad 
the saying which was told them concerning this child. 

And all they that heard it wondered at those things 
which were told them by the shepherds. 

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them 
in her heart. 

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising 
God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as 
it was told unto them. — Luke 2 : 4-20. 

We praise Thee, O God, for the meritorious grace re- 
vealed in Jesus Christ our Saviour, whose coming has 
brought untold benefits to the whole race. Today we 
celebrate Thy supreme gift to us and we bless Thee for 
its exceptional worth and bountiful preciousness. The 
song of the angels has girdled the world and its echoes 
are heard in many a life. We bless Thee for this Gospel 
of the Incarnation which declares that Thou from the 
highest didst come with the deliverance of love to man, 
at his lowest, in every condition of life. We are glad to 
know that responses have come from all classes of people, 
who acknowledge their allegiance to Christ the Lord. We 
pray that this message of redemption may have a still 
larger appeal, and that the peace of God may be universally 
welcomed in sincerity, earnestness, and gratitude. Enter 
every home with a special Christmas blessing, and may it 
be sanctified to every member of the family, present and 
absent, so that the bonds of love may unite every one for 
nobler and better living, in the dear Redeemer's name. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[209] 



l^'^A'turty-firsA DECEMBER THIRTY-FIRST 



ANOTHER MILESTONE 

Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who 
only doeth wondrous things. 

And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let 
the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and 
Amen. — Psalm y2 : i8, 19. 

Lord, thou hast been our dwellingplace in all genera- 
tions. 

Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou 
hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlast- 
ing to everlasting, thou art God. . . . 

For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday 
when it is past, and as a watch in the night. 

Thou carriest them away as with a flood; they are 
as a sleep: in the morning they are like grass which 
groweth up. 

In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up; in the 
evening it is cut down, and withereth. . . . 

The days of our years are threescore years and ten; 
and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, 
yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon 
cut oflF, and we fly away. . • . 

So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our 
hearts imto wisdom. . . . 

O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may re- 
joice and be glad all our days. 

Make us glad according to the days wherein thou hast 
afflicted us, and the years wherein we have seen evil. 

Let thy work appear unto thy servants, and thy glory 
unto their children. 

And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: 
and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, 
the work of our hands establish thou it. — Psalm 90: i, 
2, 4-6, 10, 12, 14-17- 

We give Thee hearty praise, O Lord God, for bringing 
us to the close of another year, and we confess our faith 
in Thee by declaring : "Hitherto hath the Lord helped us." 
[210] 



DECEMBER THIRTY-FIRST rSpedaiDays 

IDecember Thirty-Rr^t 

The year has been one of lights and shadows, of pleasure 
and privation, of success and failure. Thou hast been with 
us in our joys and sorrows, and we have been enabled to 
endure by the grace of the faithful and considerate Guide, 
who has not failed us. Forgive us the errors and omis- 
sions of the year and continue to us Thy bounty for the 
New Year. We know not what a day may bring forth, 
much less what the New Year has in store for us. But 
Thou art the same and so we put our trust in Thee, pray- 
ing that we may go forward into the unknown future, 
without fear or anxiety. Strengthen the faint-hearted, 
deliver the desolate, comfort the sad, encourage all to re- 
new their vows, to lay hold on Thee, and to abide under 
the shadow of the Almighty, in the confident persuasion 
that to them that love God all things work together for 
good in Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, 
and for ever. 

The Lord's Prayer. 



[211] 



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